A mysterious long trail of light, resembling the exhaust of a missile or a rocket, was sighted in the sky over Cox’s Bazar beach on Friday evening, triggering a mixture of excitement and panic among tourists and locals.
The phenomenon was observed at approximately 7pm on Friday over the Bay of Bengal, specifically visible from the Laboni-Sugandha points of Cox’s Bazar and the Inani beach area situated west of Ukhiya.
Videos of the object – described as a fast-moving, elongated flame-like streak across the horizon – quickly went viral on social media platforms as onlookers captured the moment on their mobile phones.
Nur Mohammad, a local eyewitness, recounted his initial fear: “I was scared at first. It looked like the missiles seen in the Iran-Israel war. Later, however, I enjoyed the sight. I have seen moonlight many times, but this is the first time I have seen such a trail of light.”
Saiful Islam, a tourist visiting with his family, noted that while they did not expect to witness such a scene, they found the experience enjoyable.
Local residents remarked that such sightings are extremely rare in the area, leading to intense discussion and curiosity, though some video recordings captured voices of panic.
While the exact nature of the object remains unconfirmed, theories ranging from a spacecraft or rocket components to military flares have surfaced.
When approached for clarification, Abdul Hannan, a meteorologist at the Cox’s Bazar Meteorological Office, declined to comment on the matter.
However, Indian media reports suggest the light may be linked to a potential test of the “Agni-6” intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) by India.
According to The Economic Times, a “Notice to Airmen (NOTAM)” was issued for the period of 6 to 9 May, covering a 3,500-kilometre range in the Bay of Bengal stretching from Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha.
Local administration officials stated they are aware of the incident and are currently verifying the videos circulating on social media. They have also urged the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading rumours or unnecessary panic.
