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 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 during an October 7 meeting of the National Civil Aviation Security Committee (NCASC) held at the headquarters of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB). According to sources, both the airport director and the project director raised concerns regarding repeated thefts from the offshore lighting system and emphasized the necessity of strengthening 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, stating that he would speak later, while subsequent calls went unanswered.
Consequently, no official comment could be obtained regarding 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, stated that no general diary or case had been filed at the station regarding 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 state that approach lighting systems are vital for safe landings, especially during adverse weather and low-visibility conditions. Any damage to the system can complicate flight operations, raising concerns regarding the protection of critical infrastructure and the airport's preparedness to meet international aviation standards.
Sources familiar with the matter stated that, given the system's offshore location, round-the-clock marine patrols, modern surveillance equipment, and coordinated security measures by relevant agencies were required to prevent further thefts.
Local residents have also voiced concern over the incidents.
Mohammad Sohel, a young resident living near the airport, described the thefts as alarming because the facility is preparing to operate as an international airport. He questioned how the lights could be stolen despite the existing security arrangements.
Local businessman Sabbir Ahmed 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.
Why it matters
The security breaches at Cox's Bazar International Airport threaten vital aviation infrastructure and readiness ahead of an international audit.