Gunfire and mortar shell explosions have once again echoed across the Teknaf border in Cox's Bazar, originating from Myanmar, stirring fear among residents. From 1:00 pm on Thursday to 9:00 am on Friday, locals spent the night in apprehension as heavy mortar shells pounded several points along the Teknaf border.
Residents of Teknaf's Hoikang and Hnila union borders assert that clashes between the Arakan Army and Myanmar government forces are escalating, adding to their anxiety.
Areas including Howaikang North Para, Lombabil, Unchiprang Para, Kharankkhali, Molvi Bazar, Wabrang, Phule Dale, Chowdhury Para, and Jaliya Para in Teknaf reported intermittent sounds of gunfire and explosions from across the border.
Meanwhile, civil unrest persists in villages east of the Huaikong and Hnila border, such as Kumirhali, Naichdong, Kwangchigong, Shilkhali, and Nakpura.
Chairman Noor Mohammad Anwari of Howaikang Union Parishad expressed concern over the two consecutive days of mortar shells and gunshots since Eid, noting heightened panic among locals.
Rashed Mohammad Ali, chairman of Hnila Union Parishad, described the border area as rattling with the sound of mortar shells and bullets, likening it to thunder, causing sleepless nights for residents.
Teknaf Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Adnan Chowdhury acknowledged reports from border representatives about gunfire in various areas. In response to the conflict situation in Myanmar, law enforcement activities, including those of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and Coast Guard, have intensified along the border. Citizens residing in border regions have been urged to remain vigilant.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
