Teknaf, Dec 14 (V7N) – Residents of Hwaikyang border area in Teknaf upazila of Cox’s Bazar experienced intense panic after mortar shells and heavy gunfire were fired from Myanmar territory, shaking homes and endangering civilian lives.

According to local sources, intermittent gunfire and mortar shell explosions continued for nearly four hours, from dawn until around 8:00 am on Saturday (December 13). The loud blasts caused houses near the border to tremble, creating widespread fear and anxiety across the area.

Hwaikyang Union Parishad member Sirajul Mostafa Lalu said that from early morning, continuous sounds of mortar shelling and heavy weapons fire were heard coming from inside Myanmar. The powerful explosions shook homes along the border, leaving local residents terrified.

He further reported that several bullets landed at the homes of Mohammad Hossain and Abdul Quddus near Hwaikyang Bazar, as well as at the residence of Sarwar Alam in Balukhali village. In addition, a mortar shell reportedly exploded in the Naf River near the North Para area, where smoke was seen rising from the water.

Nurul Absar, son of Mohammad Hossain, one of the affected residents, said that intense gunfire and the sound of mortar shelling had been ongoing since early morning across the border. During that time, two bullets pierced through the tin roof of their house and fell inside, causing extreme fear among family members. He added that every burst of gunfire made their home shake.

Another victim, Sarwar Alam, said that as soon as the gunfire started, he rushed his children to a safer spot inside the house. Amid the terrifying noise, a bullet suddenly pierced the tin roof and fell inside the room, ricocheting around before coming to rest. When he later picked it up, it still felt hot.

Confirming the incident, Hwaikyang Police Outpost In-Charge Sub-Inspector (OC) Khokon Kanti Rudra said that heavy gunfire was heard from the Myanmar side throughout the morning. Reports of bullets landing in several homes near the border have been received, and the situation is being closely monitored.

Amid the ongoing tension along the border, frightened residents have called for enhanced security measures and swift government action to ensure their safety and prevent further cross-border threats.

END/SIC/SMA/