Teknaf, Sept 21 (V7N) — The Bangladesh Coast Guard has intercepted a drug-smuggling operation along the Myanmar border, arresting three traffickers and recovering a large quantity of goods. The suspects were handed over to Teknaf Model Police Station for further legal action.

Lieutenant Commander Siam-ul-Haq, media officer of the Coast Guard, confirmed that the arrested group was attempting to smuggle yaba, alcohol, and other narcotics from Myanmar into Bangladesh in exchange for Bangladeshi products. The operation took place around 1:00 pm on Saturday near the maritime area adjacent to Naikhongchhari in Myanmar, conducted by the Shahpori Coast Guard outpost.

During the raid, officials inspected a suspicious wooden boat and seized 83 sacks of cement, 85 sacks of fertilizer, 340 liters of soybean oil, and the boat used for smuggling. The total estimated value of the confiscated goods is approximately Tk 1.6 lakh. The identities of the three traffickers have not yet been disclosed.

The seized goods, the boat, and the arrested individuals are now in the process of being handed over to law enforcement authorities for appropriate legal proceedings.

Lieutenant Commander Siam-ul-Haq added that the Coast Guard will continue such operations in the future to curb smuggling and maintain security along the border.

END/SIC/SMA/