Repeated thefts of electrical cables and critical components from the Category II Precision Approach Lighting System (ALS) at Cox’s Bazar International Airport have raised concerns over aviation security as the airport prepares to launch international flight operations.
The incidents have come under renewed scrutiny ahead of a security audit by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) scheduled for October 26.
The approach lighting system, installed on piles offshore near the confluence of the Bay of Bengal and the Bakkhali River at the northern end of the runway, helps aircraft land safely at night and in foggy or low-visibility conditions.
Repeated thefts from the system have not only caused financial losses but also raised questions about the security of critical aviation infrastructure.
The issue was discussed at a meeting of the National Civil Aviation Security Committee (NCASC) at the headquarters of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) on October 7. According to sources, the airport director and the project director raised concerns over repeated thefts from the offshore lighting system and stressed the need to strengthen security.
Attempts to obtain comments from Cox’s Bazar International Airport’s acting director, Md Golam Mortaza Hossain, went unanswered. He briefly answered one call but disconnected it, saying he would speak later. Subsequent calls went unanswered.
Consequently, no official comment could be obtained on the thefts, the extent of the damage or the measures taken to prevent further incidents.
Sheikh Mohammad Ali, officer-in-charge of Cox’s Bazar Sadar Model Police Station, said no general diary or case had been filed at the station over the thefts.
Senior journalist Nurul Islam Helali described the incidents as a possible attempt to undermine the airport’s development as it prepares to achieve international status. He urged the authorities to tighten security, although no evidence establishing a conspiracy was cited.
Aviation experts say approach lighting systems are essential for safe landings, particularly in adverse weather and low-visibility conditions. Damage to any part of the system can complicate flight operations, raising concerns about the protection of critical infrastructure and the airport’s readiness to meet international aviation standards.
Given the system’s offshore location, those familiar with the matter said round-the-clock marine patrols, modern surveillance equipment and coordinated security measures by relevant agencies were needed to prevent further thefts.
Local residents have also voiced concern over the incidents.
Mohammad Sohel, a young resident living near the airport, said the thefts were alarming as the facility was preparing to operate as an international airport. He questioned how the lights could be stolen despite the security arrangements in place.
Sabbir Ahmed, a local businessman, also questioned how thefts could occur at such a sensitive facility despite the presence of security personnel. He called for a thorough investigation to establish how the incidents took place and identify those responsible.
The government has been implementing major infrastructure projects to upgrade Cox’s Bazar Airport to international standards. The work includes runway expansion, construction of the offshore approach lighting system, a new international passenger terminal, taxiways and an apron, as well as the installation of modern navigation and security equipment.
According to the latest revised Development Project Proposal (DPP), the international passenger terminal building project alone is estimated to cost Tk1,039.35 crore. The broader programme to upgrade the airport to international standards involves investment worth several thousand crore taka.