Jafor Alam, Cox’s Bazar:  Residents of Teknaf Upazila in Cox’s Bazar and the surrounding areas experienced a resurgence of violence emanating from Myanmar, disrupting the brief period of tranquility. The sounds of conflict, including gunfire and heavy artillery, were reported from the late hours of Sunday through to Monday morning, March 25th. The disturbances stem from ongoing conflicts within Myanmar, notably in the Mandu city’s Nakpura area and previously affected regions such as Dhanikhali and Sangkshabil in Rakhine State.

Maungdaw town of the Rakhine state in Myanmar on the other side of the river Naf. Teknaf is on this side of the border

Local Officials Report Increased Tension

According to Rashid Mohammad Ali, chair of Hnila Union Parishad, the border regions had enjoyed a lull before the recent outbreak of violence, which has instilled fear among the populace. Nur Mohammad Anwari and Mujibur Rahman, local union and municipality leaders, echoed these sentiments, reporting that the sounds of conflict have forced fishermen to abandon their activities in the Naf River and have spread panic throughout the community.

Security Measures Intensified

In response to the escalating situation, the Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB) has ramped up patrols along the Naf River and the broader border area to prevent unauthorized crossings. Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Mohiuddin Ahmed highlighted the increased military presence aimed at maintaining security and peace for the local communities affected by the unrest across the border.