Sabotage of telco towers: Network trouble heightens in CHT

Mobile network disruptions have intensified in several areas of the Chittagong Hill Tract (CHT) region, as criminal gangs continue to target mobile towers in acts of sabotage.

Over the past three months, nearly 50 towers have been shut after power supplies were cut and fibre-optic cables severed in attacks, primarily targeting infrastructure belonging to mobile operator Robi impacting communication in the region, according to a Robi statement.

The situation has escalated further with reports of security personnel being abducted from tower sites.

At least three security guards in Khagrachhari district have been kidnapped, while Robi employees have received anonymous threats, heightening concerns about safety.

EDOTCO Bangladesh Limited, the company responsible for maintaining Robi's towers, is struggling to ensure the security of these installations.

The disruption has been particularly severe in areas such as Khagrachhari, Rangamati, Lakshmichhari, Panchhari, Dighinala, Manikchhari, Naniarchar, Raozan, Fatikchhari and Baghaichhari.

In Khagrachhari alone, 32 towers were sabotaged, with only seven restored so far.

Even when some sites are repaired, criminals frequently strike again, forcing repeated shutdowns.

The state-run Bangladesh Telecommunications Company Limited (BTCL) has also been affected, with at least 26 of its towers experiencing cable cuts. Some connections have been restored, but they still remain vulnerable.

Meanwhile, network shutdowns have caused severe disruptions to daily life and economic activity.

Residents in affected areas struggle with communication blackouts, making it nearly impossible to contact emergency services, transport patients or ensure timely medicine deliveries.

Businesses have also suffered, with supply chains disrupted and transportation of goods severely affected. Farmers, unable to connect with buyers, face financial losses as produce remains unsold or is sold at reduced prices.

In response, law-enforcement agencies, EDOTCO security teams and local administrations are working to address the crisis.

A high-level meeting on 23 February 2025 brought together various stakeholders, with a resolution expected by February 28.

However, despite ongoing efforts, fresh attacks on towers have continued.

EDOTCO has formally alerted the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) about the situation, while Robi has maintained close coordination with BTCL and law enforcement to accelerate restoration efforts.

The gravity of the situation has prompted discussions with intelligence agencies, with representatives from EDOTCO, Robi and other organisations recently meeting officials from the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence.

Joint monitoring efforts between EDOTCO and Robi continue daily, but significant challenges remain.

Local residents, who depend on mobile networks for essential services, have voiced their frustration and desperation.

Rabiul Islam, a Manikchhari resident, voiced the hardships faced by communities, saying: "We can't make emergency calls when needed. Pharmacies are running out of medicines. The situation is only getting worse."

Junang Tanchangya, from Rangamati Sadar, highlighted the broader implications.

"The attacks on mobile towers have created a law-and-order crisis. The government must intervene immediately to restore connectivity, or the situation will deteriorate further."

Robi has urged the authorities concerned to take swift action to restore mobile services and bolster security in the region.

It warns that prolonged disruptions will not only result in further revenue losses, but also worsen the socio-economic crisis in the CHT region.

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