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Monday | January 26, 2026 | Dhaka

Smuggling of oil, rice surges on Myanmar border

Published · Updated

Staff Reporter  :
Amid the ongoing clashes between government forces and the Arakan Army, instances of regular smuggling of essential goods such as edible oils, cooking oil, rice, and biscuits are rampant.

Furthermore, fresh incidents of firing have been reported in Myanmar, extending beyond the Tumbru Point along the Naikhongchhari border, sparking panic among residents residing near the Bangladesh border.

After a 10-day ceasefire following earlier firing incidents, heavy gunfire resurfaced from the Tumbru Right Camp at 9 am on Monday, albeit lasting only a few minutes. Local traders in Tumbru Bazar confirmed the firing, specifying locations at the Tumbru Right Camp and Dhekubunia.

Consequently, residents of border areas, notably Tumbru and Headman Para, find themselves gripped by renewed fear. Jahangir Aziz, Chairman of the local union council, expressed concerns over the recurring firing incidents, adding that rumors of air raids have intensified the sense of dread among the populace.

“Such firing incidents have happened before. It has happened again on Monday. However, rumours of air raids have spread everywhere. Consequently, ordinary people are feeling scared,” he said.

Simultaneously, amidst the border conflicts, smuggling activities have surged across at least 20 points along the border, with notable instances observed between pillar numbers 50 and 46. Sources indicate that smuggling operations, particularly of edible oils, are rampant during daylight hours.

Mohammad Imran, Chairman of Dochori Union Council in Naikhongchhari Upazila, raised alarm over the tenfold increase in smuggling across the eastern border. He highlighted the influx of rice, edible oils, and various illegal goods, warning of a potential food crisis in the region if left unchecked.

Imran also noted that due to the Myanmar conflict, individuals from Myanmar are seeking refuge in Bangladesh. He cited the recent influx of eight to ten Myanmar Murung citizens into Menroa Para of Ward No. 3, seeking sanctuary.