BCG foils fertiliser smuggling attempt off St.Martin’s Coast
The Bangladesh Coast Guard successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle urea fertiliser by sea, seizing 600 sacks and detaining 10 individuals involved in the illicit operation.
Lieutenant Commander H. M. M. Harun-ur-Rashid, the Coast Guard's media officer, confirmed the update this afternoon.
According to the Coast Guard, on 1 May 2025, Coast Guard Ship Tajuddin detected a suspicious wooden engine boat near Chera Dwip, south of Saint Martin's Island. Given the ongoing 58-day fishing ban in the Bay of Bengal, any fishing or transport vessel in that area clearly violates the law.
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Upon issuing a stop signal, the boat attempted to flee at high speed, disregarding the lawful command. The Coast Guard vessel pursued and intercepted the fleeing craft. A subsequent search revealed 600 sacks of urea fertiliser allegedly smuggled to Myanmar's Rakhine State, bypassing duties and taxes. Ten individuals from Cox's Bazar and Chattogram were arrested at the scene.
The seized fertiliser has been handed over to Teknaf Customs. At the same time, the arrested suspects and the boat used in the operation have been transferred to Teknaf Model Police Station for further legal action.
Lieutenant Commander Harun-ur-Rashid reaffirmed the Coast Guard's unwavering commitment to maintaining national security and curbing illegal activities in coastal regions. He stated that round-the-clock patrols are being conducted to ensure stability and prevent smuggling along Bangladesh's maritime and riverine borders.
The Bangladesh Coast Guard will continue such operations for national integrity and maritime law enforcement.
