Coast Guard intensifies patrols to stop fuel smuggling

The Bangladesh Coast Guard has intensified patrols in coastal and border areas to prevent the smuggling of fuel oil and essential commodities to Myanmar.

Coast Guard Media Officer Sabbir Alam Sujon disclosed the development on Saturday afternoon, saying the force has remained on maximum alert amid concerns that fuel oil and daily necessities could be illegally transported across the border.

He said patrol operations and intelligence surveillance have already been strengthened in coastal border areas and along river routes to prevent such smuggling activities.

According to the Coast Guard, continuous patrols are being conducted day and night in coastal regions, waterways and border-adjacent areas to ensure that organised smuggling networks cannot transport fuel oil or other essential commodities illegally.

“Operations against all forms of smuggling will continue in the interest of protecting the country’s economy and maintaining stability in the domestic market,” Sabbir Alam said.

Authorities believe that heightened global fuel pressures and supply disruptions could encourage cross-border smuggling attempts, prompting the intensified vigilance.

The Coast Guard also urged citizens to remain alert about suspicious activities in coastal or riverine areas and report information related to smuggling to its emergency hotline 16111.