The Bangladesh Navy has detained 20 people and seized two engine-powered boats carrying 1,700 bags of cement allegedly bound for Myanmar, following an operation near Saint Martin’s Island on Tuesday.
According to a Navy press release, a patrol vessel on regular duty spotted two suspicious wooden fishing boats approximately 19 miles from the Saint Martin’s Lighthouse. Observing irregular movements, naval personnel pursued and intercepted the vessels, identified as Ma-2 and Nishan-2.
A thorough search recovered 900 bags of cement from Ma-2 and 800 bags from Nishan-2. The detainees admitted that the cement was intended for sale in Myanmar at higher profits.
Following the operation, both the confiscated cargo and the arrested individuals were handed over to Teknaf Police Station for legal action.
The Navy emphasised that such patrols and operational activities form part of its ongoing efforts to protect Bangladesh’s maritime sovereignty, enhance sea security, and ensure good governance in the country’s territorial waters.
