BGB issues warning as gunfire erupts inside Myanmar border

The BGB asks residents to avoid border areas and proceed with caution

Intense gunfire has been heard emanating from within Myanmar territory across the Teknaf frontier in Cox’s Bazar.

While the sounds have sparked panic among border residents, the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) advised the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution.

The gunfire reportedly erupted on Friday in Teknaf’s Whykong Uttar Para border area and continued intermittently until Saturday morning.

Lt Col Zohirul Islam, commanding officer of the 64th BGB Battalion in Ukhiya, said: “Gunfire is occurring within Myanmar, the sounds of which are audible from this side.

“From Friday night until Saturday morning, intermittent firing was heard opposite the Whykong frontier in Teknaf.

“This may be due to internal incidents within their territory. We, however, are actively advising locals not to approach the border and to move carefully. Despite this, some residents are failing to heed these warnings.”

The tension follows an incident on Thursday night when a 31-year-old fisherman, identified with a single name as Alamgir, was shot by a bullet originating from Myanmar while fishing in the river.

Alamgir, who is from Whykong’s Balukhali, is currently receiving treatment at Cox’s Bazar District Hospital.

Teknaf Upazila administrator (UNO) Emamul Hafiz Nadim said, “Fishermen and civilians in border areas have been instructed to stay away from the boundary and maintain high alert amidst the ongoing gunfire.

“Despite a ban on fishing in the Naf River, some individuals continue to venture there. We will take necessary steps to increase awareness among local fishermen.”

Since Dec 27, repeated explosions and gunfire have been heard across the Ukhiya and Teknaf borders in Cox’s Bazar, as well as the Naikhongchhari frontier in Bandarban, due to the escalating conflict in Myanmar's Rakhine state.