Bhola: The Bangladesh Coast Guard (BCG) has successfully intercepted a significant smuggling operation by seizing 8,000 kilograms (160 sacks) of urea fertilizer from the Meghna River in Tajumuddin upazila of Bhola during a targeted anti-smuggling drive. The operation highlights ongoing efforts to curb illegal activities in the region.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the fertilizer was allegedly being transported to Myanmar for smuggling purposes, as stated by BCG media officer Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Suzon. The Coast Guard also seized a steel-hulled trawler that was being used to transport the fertilizer.
The operation was initiated following a tip-off, leading a team from Coast Guard Station Tajumuddin to conduct a special operation near Muktijoddha Bazar on the Meghna River around 3 pm on Saturday. During the operation, the team intercepted a suspicious trawler and upon searching the vessel, recovered the fertilizer, which has an estimated value of around Tk 2.4 lakh.
Despite the success of the operation, the smugglers managed to flee the scene, and no arrests have been made so far. Legal proceedings are currently underway concerning the seized fertilizer and trawler.
The BCG has emphasized its commitment to continue anti-smuggling operations to safeguard national interests, as reiterated by Lieutenant Commander Suzon.