Rangamati, July 3 (V7N) — Authorities from the Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation (BFDC) have seized approximately 300 kilograms of fish being smuggled in violation of the ongoing fishing ban in Kaptai Lake. The illegal transport was intercepted from a passenger bus operated by Relax Paribahan late Wednesday night, in an attempt to bypass regulations through disguised commercial trafficking.
 
According to BFDC Deputy Manager Masud Alam, the bus was seized near Manikchhari, Rangamati, during a late-night operation based on confidential information. Acting on a tip-off, the BFDC, in coordination with the naval police, pursued the vehicle and stopped it just before the Manikchhari checkpoint.
 
Commander Md. Fayez Al Karim, Manager at BFDC, confirmed that the operation uncovered fish hidden inside specially designed onboard tanks. “We intercepted the bus while it was attempting to smuggle around 300 kg of fish under the guise of carrying passengers. The fish and the bus were both brought under our custody,” he stated.
 
The seized fish were later auctioned publicly, as per protocol. Commander Fayez emphasized that the incident occurred during the mandatory fishing and marketing ban period in Kaptai Lake, which began on May 1st, aiming to preserve natural breeding cycles and ensure long-term sustainability of the lake’s fish resources.
 
“We are thoroughly investigating those involved in this smuggling attempt,” Commander Fayez said. He called upon the public to remain vigilant and assist authorities in preventing such illegal activities. “Protecting the ecological balance of Kaptai Lake requires active participation from local communities. We urge everyone to report suspicious activities, and I assure you, the identities of informants will be strictly protected.”
 
The BFDC has intensified surveillance efforts around Kaptai Lake during this closed season, warning that stern action will be taken against any individual or group attempting to exploit the lake’s resources in defiance of the fishing ban.
 
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