The Bangladesh Navy has intensified security measures for fuel-carrying vessels within the country’s territorial waters, citing the evolving international and regional security situation.
In a statement on Thursday, the Navy said it remains constantly deployed to ensure the security of sea lanes and guarantee the safe movement of commercial vessels, thereby consolidating the nation’s import-export activities.
Crude oil is the primary source of various fuels, including LNG, LPG, petrol, diesel, and jet fuel, located within Bangladesh’s waters. The Navy has historically ensured the security of these crude oil-carrying vessels, but measures have been further strengthened in light of the current situation.
“Considering the recent international and regional security situation, the Navy remains vigilant to ensure the safety of fuel-carrying vessels within the country’s territorial waters,” the statement read.
Patrol and surveillance activities have been intensified in areas adjacent to Chattogram sea port, the deep sea, and critical sea routes involved in fuel transport. The Navy has deployed warships, fast attack craft, maritime patrol aircraft, and helicopters for continuous patrolling and aerial surveillance.
These additional security measures are primarily precautionary and aim to further strengthen the overall security of the country’s fuel transport system. Special operational teams are also ready to prevent any potential smuggling, subversive activities, or illegal acts at sea.
The Bangladesh Navy is coordinating with port authorities, the Coast Guard, law enforcement agencies, and relevant fuel companies to ensure overall security in fuel supply, further solidifying the security of the country’s fuel import, storage, and transport system.
The Navy reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the country’s territorial waters, critical infrastructure, and economic interests with vigilance and professionalism, stating that such security measures will continue in the future to ensure energy security and maintain uninterrupted commercial activities at sea.
