Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) Director General Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui said on Thursday that many people are trying to spread rumours and propaganda about Saint Martin's Island regarding Myanmar’s ongoing internal conflict and these claims are baseless.
"BGB is committed to safeguarding the country's integrity and ensuring security at the borders at any cost," he said during the passing-out parade ceremony of the 101st recruit batch of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) in Satkania in Chattogram.
Addressing journalists, Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui explained the current situation along the Naf River, where an ongoing conflict between Myanmar's internal rebel group and the Myanmar Border Guard Police (BGP) has resulted in stray bullets occasionally crossing into Bangladesh.
"Some bullets have hit our trawlers on the Naf River. We have informed both sides in Myanmar to prevent further incidents," he said.
He assured that Bangladeshi trawlers sailing to and from Saint Martin's Island would do so safely with the Bangladeshi flag flying high.
Regarding the rumours about Saint Martin's Island, he said, "I have visited the island, spoken with BGB members there and instructed them to remain vigilant."
The BGB chief said that, following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s directive, alternative routes are being used for the movement of ships and trawlers from Cox's Bazar with utmost caution.
"We are making efforts to avoid the specific risky areas altogether for transportation. Since then, there have been no further incidents," he added.
When asked about the Arakan Army in Myanmar posing a threat to Bangladesh, he clarified, "The Arakan Army is a threat to the Myanmar government forces. They are neither a threat nor a friend to us. We are observing the situation and ensuring that our border security is uncompromised."
Operations against KNF in Bandarban
Regarding the armed group Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF) carrying out attacks on security personnel in Bandarban, the BGB DG said that joint operations are ongoing and have achieved significant successes. "Thanchi and other areas in Bandarban are fully secured, and joint forces will continue operations until complete safety and security are ensured for the public," he said.
In response to a question about enhancing BGB's capabilities at the border, Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui said, "To ensure security and prevent any breaches at the border, we are meticulously planning and gradually implementing modern weaponry and digital surveillance with approval from the current government."
After the parade, the BGB chief addressed the new soldiers, emphasising the importance of protecting the sovereignty and integrity of the country through border patrols. "BGB will be the symbol of security and trustworthiness at the border," he said.
He highlighted the need for integrity, honesty, loyalty, and discipline in moulding new recruits into patriotic soldiers. "Work with honesty, stay on the right path, and love your country," he advised the new recruits.
He also stressed the importance of combating cross-border smuggling of illegal weapons and explosives and preventing the trafficking of women and children. He urged the new soldiers to maintain the chain of command, avoid unethical earnings and disciplinary misconduct, and be cautious while using social media platforms.
Addressing the new female soldiers, Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui said, "In safeguarding the independence and sovereignty of our country, alongside men, women also play a significant role. Remember the unforgettable sacrifices of the heroic women of Bangladesh in the struggle for our independence. I believe you will work with dedication and skill to enhance the force's reputation and prosperity while ensuring overall discipline and dynamic roles."
Out of a total of 556 recruits trained at the Border Guard Training Centre and College starting on January 14 this year, 520 male and 36 female recruits participated in the 24-week basic training.
