Teknaf, Jan 11 (V7N) — Continuous powerful explosions and intermittent gunfire have been heard from across the Hoikyang border in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, causing panic among residents living along the Bangladesh–Myanmar frontier in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar. The intensity of the blasts has been such that houses in several border villages reportedly trembled, heightening concerns over safety in the area.

According to local sources, sporadic explosions and gunfire began late Thursday night (January 8) in areas adjacent to the Hoikyang border inside Rakhine State. The situation escalated further on Friday morning. After 10:00 am, the sound of explosions grew louder, and around 11:00 am, residents reported hearing three to four powerful bomb blasts in quick succession. Intermittent gunfire continued throughout Friday evening.

Hoikyang border resident Md. Salimullah said he was unable to sleep after hearing multiple rounds of gunfire on Thursday night. He described a constant fear that stray bullets could cross into Bangladeshi territory at any moment.

Another local resident, Dildar Samad Khan, said the sound of heavy gunfire appeared to be coming from very close to the Rakhine border, intensifying anxiety among people living nearby.

Local fisherman Ahmed Ullah said such incidents of gunfire and explosions along the Rakhine border have become increasingly frequent, leaving fishermen and border communities feeling unsafe.

On Thursday evening, fisherman Md. Alamgir was shot while fishing in the Hoikyang area of the Naf River. Locals claim he was hit by a bullet fired from across the border. He is currently undergoing treatment at Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital, according to family sources.

Sirajul Mostafa Lalu, a member of Ward No. 2 of Hoikyang Union Parishad, said that since Friday morning, the sound of explosions and gunfire from across the border has been strong enough to shake houses on the Bangladeshi side. He confirmed hearing several powerful bomb blasts around 11:00 am, followed by intermittent gunfire that continued later in the day.

Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md. Inamul Hafiz Nadim said the administration is aware of the gunfire incidents along the border. He added that residents in border areas have been advised to remain cautious and that the situation is being closely monitored.

Local residents have called for increased Border Guard Bangladesh patrols along the frontier and urged authorities to take immediate diplomatic steps with Myanmar to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of civilians living along the border.

END/SIC/SMA/