Cox’s Bazar, July 18 (V7N) – The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has extended financial assistance to four individuals injured by landmine explosions planted by the Arakan Army along the zero line of the Bangladesh-Myanmar border.
Lieutenant Colonel S.M. Khairul Alam, Commanding Officer of the 34th BGB Battalion in Cox’s Bazar, confirmed on Friday morning that the financial aid was distributed to the injured civilians.
The beneficiaries include Md. Sona Mia (18), son of Md. Habibur Rahman from Fakiraghona, Tumbro in Bandarban; Md. Abu Taher (28), son of the late Abul Hossain from Tumbro Hospital Para; Md. Karim Hossain (20), son of Md. S. Alam from Tulatali village in Ukhia, Cox’s Bazar; and Md. Monsur Alam (30), son of Siraj Mia from the same village.
Lt. Col. Khairul Alam explained that the opposition forces, namely the Arakan Army or junta, have planted mines along the zero line in the border area under the jurisdiction of the 34th BGB Battalion. Local residents often enter these areas for farming, cattle grazing, and collecting bamboo and firewood to earn their livelihood. Unfortunately, several civilians have been injured in landmine explosions during such activities.
In the past six months, four Bangladeshi civilians have been injured by mines in this border region, with most losing limbs. Acting under directives from the Director General of BGB, initial financial support has been provided to these victims, with plans for further assistance in phases.
Lt. Col. Khairul Alam emphasized, “To maintain public confidence and peace in our operational areas, BGB will continue to provide financial aid to those injured by mines and other accidents, as well as support the poor and vulnerable.”
He also urged local residents not to cross the zero line or barbed wire fence into Myanmar, warning that the Arakan Army or junta forces have laid mines in the border area. Awareness programs are ongoing to ensure the safety of border communities.
Local residents expressed gratitude to the BGB Director General and all involved for their timely financial support to those injured while working near the zero line in border areas.
END/SIU/SMA/
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