Navy detains 22 people attempting to smuggle 1,500 cement bags to Myanmar

The Navy seizes two cement-laden boats off St Martin’s after receiving intelligence about smuggling

The Bangladesh Navy has detained 22 people and seized two engine-powered boats carrying 1,500 bags of cement while attempting to smuggle them to Myanmar through the Bay of Bengal near St Martin’s Island in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar.

During a routine night patrol on Tuesday, the Navy intercepted the boats from deep-sea waters, the force’s public relations wing said.

It added that intelligence indicated a syndicate was preparing to smuggle Bangladeshi Diamond Cement to Myanmar, evading customs duties. Patrols were intensified around St Martin’s Island and nearby areas.

The seized vessels -- Khaja Garib-e-Neowaz-6 and Ma Babar Dowa-10 -- along with the cement and detained individuals, have been handed over to Teknaf police for legal action.

The Navy affirmed that its patrols and operations will continue to secure maritime borders, uphold good governance, and combat smuggling and all other criminal activities.