Chattogram: The Bangladesh Coast Guard (BCG) has apprehended 10 individuals, including a person identified as a Rohingya, in connection with the alleged smuggling of a significant amount of urea fertiliser and essential goods to Myanmar. The operation, which was conducted by the Coast Guard Station St Martin's, resulted in the seizure of a boat laden with these commodities.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the BCG Media Officer, Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujon, revealed the details in a press release issued this evening. The operation was initiated following a tip-off about potential smuggling activities. It took place in the deep-sea area southeast of Chera Dwip, near St Martin's Island in Cox's Bazar, during the previous night.
The Coast Guard team encountered a boat that did not heed the signal to stop and attempted to escape. A pursuit ensued, resulting in the interception of the vessel in the deep sea. Upon searching the boat, the Coast Guard seized 240 sacks of urea fertiliser, 190 sacks of garlic, and 90 sacks of onions, which are collectively valued at approximately Taka 13.70 lakh.
The 10 individuals on board were detained following the discovery of the goods. Legal actions are being pursued against the detainees, and further measures concerning the seized items are currently underway, as stated by the BCG official.