Eleven Bangladeshi fishermen, along with two fishing trawlers, have been abducted from the waters near Teknaf and Saint Martin’s Island. Residents and fishing trawler owners claim that members of Myanmar’s armed rebel group, the Arakan Army (AA), are responsible for the abduction.
According to reports, the incident took place on Tuesday morning when armed members of the Arakan Army entered Bangladeshi waters and took the fishermen hostage at gunpoint.
Abul Kalam, General Secretary of the Kayukkhali Boat Owners’ Association in Teknaf, confirmed the incident and stated that two more fishing boats are missing. However, it remains unclear whether the Arakan Army also took them.
“The fishermen were abducted while fishing in Bangladesh’s waters near Saint Martin’s Island. The Arakan Army entered the area, held them at gunpoint, and took them away along with two trawlers. One of those trawlers is mine. He said, “I’ve heard of other boats and fishermen being taken, but it’s unconfirmed.”
He added that repeated incidents like this have created fear among fishermen and seafood traders, emphasizing the need for government intervention to resolve the crisis.
Shahporir Island Union Parishad member Abdul Mannan confirmed hearing about the abduction but was unsure which fishing docks the seized trawlers belonged to. He said the Arakan Army chased other boats from his area while they fished.
Lieutenant Colonel Md. Ashiqur Rahman, commander of the Teknaf-2 Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) Battalion, stated that investigations are underway regarding the abduction.
Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Sheikh Ehsan Uddin acknowledged the incident, stating, “We are aware of the abduction of the fishermen and their trawlers. Discussions are ongoing with law enforcement agencies to bring them back.”
Local fish trader Nurul Kayes expressed deep concern over the recurring incidents of Bangladeshi fishermen being taken to Myanmar. “If this issue is not resolved, fishermen will be too afraid to go out to sea,” he warned.
By Abdur Rashid Manik
File Photo
