Coast Guard on high alert to avert Rohingya infiltration: DG

Bangladesh Coast Guard is on high alert to avert any attempt by the Rohingyas to infiltrate the country given the ongoing situation in Myanmar, said Director General of the force Rear Admiral Ziaul Haque today (25 December).

"Rohingyas are trying to get into Bangladesh as Teknaf and Saint Martin's Island are near to Bangladesh-Myanmar border and a tense situation is prevailing in Myanmar. Bangladesh Coast Guard is active to prevent any Rohingya infiltration by this river route. Our patrolling on the Naf river is in full swing," the DG said.

The DG made the remarks while visiting the Bangladesh-Myanmar border at Teknaf and Saint Martin's Island and distributing warm clothes among the destitute people living at Shah Parir Dwip on Wednesday.

"Rohingyas are failing to get into Bangladesh through Naf river. Besides, we are preventing Rohingyas who are trying to infiltrate through the border. Rohingyas are basically trying to get here through intermediaries," the DG added.

The Coast Guard DG called upon the locals to stay alert to prevent Rohingyas from getting into Bangladeshi territory.

Stating that Bangladesh Coast Guard is working round the clock to ensure security, the DG termed the ongoing conflict in Myanmar as their internal matter.

"A long-standing conflict between Myanmar's Junta forces and the Arakan Army has escalated, with the Junta forces currently facing defeats. Continuous gunfire in Myanmar has created fear among those living near the border. However, there is no need to panic. The Bangladesh Coast Guard is standing by to ensure the safety and security of border residents," the DG stated.

Regarding visits to the border, the DG further said Bangladesh Coast Guard is working to ensure security and develop the quality of life for coastal residents.

"This is why Coast guard is earning accolades from the coastal people. We need to increase the manpower in the force to run these programmes effectively," he added.