Sounds of airstrikes and bomb blasts were reported from Myanmar’s Rakhine state, heightening tensions across the Teknaf border. 

An explosion sound was heard on Thursday night (Nov 28) around 10 p.m., further raising concerns in the border area.

Earlier, sound of a similar bomb explosion was heard on Wednesday morning.

These attacks are believed to be carried out by Myanmar’s military-backed forces targeting possible sites linked to the Arakan Army, an armed ethnic insurgent group, in the southern and Mongdu regions of Rakhine.

Abdul Amin, a resident of Shahpari Island, expressed deep concern over the ongoing situation in Rakhine, saying, "The constant sound of explosions at night and early morning is shaking our homes. Our children are terrified. Whenever the bombs explode, they cling to us, crying in fear. We are extremely worried about their safety."

Abdus Salam, member of the Sabrang Union Parishad, confirming the matter said that local residents along the border heard intense gunfire and bomb explosions coming from Myanmar’s Rakhine state late Thursday night. 

"We also heard the sound of aircraft overhead, and law enforcement officials were seen on high alert along the Naf River," he said.

According to reports from Mongdu, a town in southern Rakhine, the Arakan Army is making efforts to seize control of the southern areas, having already taken control of several regions. Myanmar’s military-backed forces, in turn, are responding with bomb and mortar shell attacks as they attempt to maintain their hold on these areas.

As the conflict intensifies, fears continue to grow among local communities in Bangladesh’s border regions, where the constant threat of cross-border violence remains a serious concern.

BDST: 1649 HRS, NOV 29, 2024
MSK