Armed Group Attacks Bangladesh Air Force Base in Cox’s Bazar, One Killed

A Bangladesh Air Force base in Cox’s Bazar came under attack on Monday from the neighboring Samiti Para region, resulting in the death of a local trader and injuries to several others, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The incident occurred around 12 p.m., with unidentified assailants reportedly targeting the high-security installation. According to Saiful Islam, the officer in charge of the Cox's Bazar District Sadar Hospital police box, a 30-year-old local trader was shot during the clash and later died from his injuries.

Unconfirmed reports suggest that three Rohingyas and three Bangladeshi security personnel, including two Bangladesh Air Force officials, have been killed in ongoing clashes.

The Cox’s Bazar Air Force base is a strategic site near Rohingya refugee camps and one of the world’s longest sea beaches, making its security crucial. The fate of aircraft stationed there including Yak-130 aircraft besides several helicopters is yet to be ascertained.

The ISPR’s assistant director, Ayesha Siddiqua, stated that the Bangladesh Air Force is taking "necessary measures" to address the situation. Security forces have since restricted access to the area while the investigation continues.

The attack came hours after retired Lt. Gen. M. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, home affairs adviser, warned of potential unrest linked to allies of the ousted Awami League government. During a press conference in Dhaka, he said, “We will ensure that terrorists cannot stand anywhere and prevent crimes at any cost.”