Three Myanmar warships have been visibly anchored near St Martin's Island for the past week, causing widespread panic among the island's residents.
Local residents report that heavy artillery and mortar shells are being fired from these ships, targeting the Arakan Army, a rebel group in Myanmar.
The presence of the warships were confirmed by our Cox's Bazar correspondent who visited the island on Friday (14 June). However, it remains unclear whether the ships have entered Bangladesh's territorial waters.
Hashim, a resident of Dailpara on St. Martin's Island, said, "We have never seen Myanmar’s warships so close before. These ships are stationed in our waters and are fighting the Arakan Army. We can hear the sounds of gunfire, which is very frightening for us."
Another resident Aman Ullah said, "They show no regard for our country. Their warships have entered our waters, and people are very scared to travel. We hear the sounds of shooting every day. We urge the government to ensure safe navigation for our vessels."
Zainal Abedin, a supervisor of beach workers managed by the Cox’s Bazar district administration, said, "We can see Myanmar’s warships from St. Martin’s Island. We do not know if they are in Bangladesh's territorial waters. The Navy or Coast Guard would have more information. However, the district administration has been informed about the warships."
Meanwhile, maritime operations on the Teknaf-St. Martin’s route have been suspended for nine days, leading to a food shortage on the island. Most shops are closed.
However, Yamin Hossain, Additional District Magistrate of Cox's Bazar, mentioned that food supplies are being sent to the island by ship.
