The Bangladesh Coast Guard has rescued 50 people from a boat allegedly being used for human trafficking to Malaysia and arrested nine suspected traffickers during a special operation in the waters off Baharchhara in Teknaf.
Coast Guard media officer Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujon confirmed the information on Saturday.
According to the Coast Guard, the operation was conducted between 6:00pm and midnight on June 5 based on intelligence information as part of ongoing efforts to prevent human trafficking through maritime routes.
The operation involved the Coast Guard vessel Mansur Ali, Coast Guard Station Teknaf, Shahpari Island Outpost, and Baharchhara Outpost.
During the operation, Coast Guard personnel signalled a suspicious boat to stop. However, the vessel allegedly ignored the order and attempted to flee into deeper waters. After a chase, the boat was intercepted and detained in the sea off Baharchhara.
A search of the vessel led to the rescue of 50 victims who were allegedly being trafficked to Malaysia. Nine suspected members of the trafficking network were also arrested.
During preliminary questioning, the rescued individuals reportedly told investigators that members of an organised trafficking syndicate had lured Bangladeshi nationals and Rohingya refugees with promises of high-paying jobs and better living conditions abroad.
The victims alleged that they had been taken to Teknaf, where they were confined, subjected to abuse and pressured for ransom payments before being prepared for transport by sea to Malaysia and other destinations.
Investigators also received information indicating that the trafficking network had abducted some victims from various parts of the country and held them for ransom.
Legal proceedings against the arrested suspects are under way, while authorities are also taking steps regarding the seized boat and the rescued victims.
The Coast Guard said it would continue such operations to prevent human trafficking and strengthen security along Bangladesh’s maritime routes.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo: Courtesy
