The Arakan Army has seized a timber-laden boat en route from Myanmar’s Sittwe to Teknaf Land Port in Bangladesh. The boat, carrying 35 tons of timber, remains under the control of the Arakan Army at the Kharaingkhali canal in Maungdaw, Rakhine, as of Wednesday evening.
The incident occurred on Monday near Shah Porir Dwip in Teknaf, when the Arakan Army intercepted the boat under the pretense of conducting a search. Despite three days passing, the boat has not been released.
Syed Mohammad Anwar Hossain, Manager of Teknaf Land Port’s United Land Port, confirmed the seizure, stating that the boat, loaded with 35 tons of timber meant for businessman Abdul Kader, has not arrived at the port.
Abdul Kader explained that the Arakan Army is allegedly searching the boat, possibly due to misinformation. He remains in contact with Myanmar traders and expects the boat’s release after the inspection.
This incident follows a pattern of similar actions by the Arakan Army, including the seizure of three cargo vessels on January 16, which were eventually released in stages. Concerns are rising among traders about the impact on commerce, with no cargo boats arriving from Yangon since January 16.
Liberty News’ national correspondent states that Teknaf Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Sheikh Ehsan Uddin acknowledged the incident and stated that investigations are ongoing.
LND/BAIZID
