Bangladesh Media Monitor has observed and documented three serious incidents involving journalists in Cox’s Bazar district located in the south-eastern region of Bangladesh, within an 11 day period from 22 February to 4 March 2026.
According to Bangladesh Media Monitor’s observations, a total of seven journalists were attacked in two separate incidents. In one incident, three journalists were assaulted while collecting news on illegal sand extraction and in another incident four journalists were attacked while reporting on illegal hill cutting activities.
In addition, a General Diary (GD) was filed against a journalist after he published a report alleging irregularities and corruption involving a police officer.
Considering the nature, frequency and level of risk of these incidents occurring within a short period of time, Bangladesh Media Monitor is declaring Cox’s Bazar district a “Red Zone” for journalists at this moment.
Advisory for Journalists
Bangladesh Media Monitor urges journalists working in Cox’s Bazar to exercise heightened caution while collecting news, particularly when covering environmental crimes, illegal resource extraction, and allegations involving influential actors. The organization also calls on journalists to document and report any form of threat, obstruction or attack related to their professional duties.
Bangladesh Media Monitor will continue to regularly monitor and document the situation of journalist safety in Cox’s Bazar.