Mine Explosion in Hwaikong, Teknaf: Bangladeshi youth loses leg

PNN News Desk, Dhaka

A Bangladeshi youth has been seriously injured in a mine explosion near the border in Hwaikong, Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar. The blast caused the complete amputation of one of his legs.

The incident occurred on Monday (January 12) morning at Shahjan’s Dwiya area near the embankment of the Naf River. The injured youth has been identified as Mohammad Hanif, 22, a resident of Lomba Bil Majherpara in Hwaikong Union, son of Fazlul Karim.

According to local sources, Hanif had gone to check his fish farm in the morning when he accidentally stepped on a landmine planted near the border, which exploded immediately. His left leg was completely severed, and his right leg was also severely injured. Neighbors rushed to the scene and rescued him in his critical condition.

Hanif’s younger brother, Md. Amin, said that locals immediately took him to a private NGO-operated hospital where he is currently receiving treatment.

The incident caused unrest in the area. Angry relatives and residents attempted to block the Teknaf–Cox’s Bazar highway. Later, local BNP leaders and respected community members intervened and restored calm, allowing traffic to resume.

Local resident Junayed Ali Chowdhury said that most people in the Hwaikong border area rely on fish farms and salt fields for their livelihood. If they have to constantly face risks from mines, gunfire, or kidnappings, ordinary people’s lives and livelihoods will be seriously threatened. He called on the authorities to take effective action to quickly detect and remove mines in border areas.

Hwaikong Police Outpost In-Charge Khokon Rudra confirmed that the police have received information about the incident and officers are being sent to investigate the site.