Bangladesh Coast Guard Detains 11 Muslim Traders Transporting Cement and Diesel to Arakan

News January 19, 2026

Bangladeshi nationals detained by the Bangladesh Coast Guard (BCG). (Photo: ABN)

The Bangladesh Coast Guard has detained 11 Muslim traders who were transporting cement and diesel to areas of Maungdaw Township in Arakan, according to an official announcement released on January 18.

The detentions occurred on the night of January 17, when Coast Guard personnel stopped a mechanized boat on the Naf River carrying a large quantity of cement along with the 11 traders, who are reported to be Bangladeshi nationals.

Authorities stated that the individuals would be charged in connection with the smuggling of illegal goods and warned that both those involved in smuggling and those engaged in the sale of illegal goods from Bangladesh would face legal consequences.

Bangladeshi nationals detained by the Bangladesh Coast Guard (BCG). (Photo: ABN)

At present, formal cross-border trade has not fully resumed, as the Bangladesh government does not recognize the Arakan Army (AA), which controls parts of Arakan, as a legitimate governing authority. As a result, goods transported across the border are subject to enforcement actions by Bangladeshi authorities.

Earlier, on January 15, the Bangladesh Coast Guard also reported detaining 10 Muslim traders who were transporting large quantities of food supplies toward Arakan.

Source@arakanbaynews