Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has strengthened surveillance and launched coordinated drives to curb illegal hoarding, black marketing and cross-border smuggling of fuel in Naikhongchhari upazila of Bandarban.

The move comes amid a recent rise in illicit stockpiling and trafficking of petroleum products in the border area, prompting authorities to take special measures.

Under directives from the BGB headquarters, a joint operation was carried out by Naikhongchhari Battalion (11 BGB), the upazila administration and police in Naikhongchhari market and surrounding areas.

As part of the drive, BGB personnel on Wednesday conducted inspections at fuel stations, shops, warehouses and other suspected locations within their respective areas.

Commanding Officer of 11 BGB Lt Col Md Faizul Kabir said illegal hoarding and smuggling of fuel pose a serious threat to the country’s economy and energy security.

He said BGB remains firm in its stance against such crimes and warned that no one involved in illegal storage, smuggling or black marketing in border areas will be spared.

The official stressed that discipline in the fuel sector can be ensured through coordinated efforts and urged people to inform the nearest BGB camp if they notice any suspicious activities related to fuel in border areas.

He added that BGB has already intensified patrols and intelligence surveillance, and such operations will continue in the future.

Local businessman and conscious citizens welcomed the initiative, saying regular monitoring will significantly reduce illegal hoarding and black marketing of fuel.