Arakan Army abducts 19 Bangladeshi fishermen

The Arakan Army (AA), an armed rebel group in Myanmar, has abducted 19 fishermen along with four fishing boats from the Naf River on their way back to Teknaf in Cox's Bazar.

The incidents took place between the morning and afternoon of Thursday (February 20) in Shahpari Island, Gholarchar and Naiksyangdia areas of the Naf River. Earlier, the Arakan Army has not yet released four Bangladeshi fishermen who were abducted from the Naf River estuary on February 10.

Confirming this information, Teknaf Kayukkhali Boat Owners Association President Abdul Jalil said, "Today, Myanmar’s Arakan Army has captured nine fishermen along with two fishing trawlers on their way back to Teknaf. They have not yet released the six fishermen who were abducted earlier. Such incidents are causing panic among fish traders and fishermen. Moreover, we are seeking the government's cooperation to resolve this.”

In addition, 10 fishermen along with two boats were abducted near Majharpara of Shahpari Island, said Abdur Gafur, General Secretary of Shahparir Island Majharpara terminal.

A top BGB official stationed at the Teknaf border, who did not want to be named, said, "We have received information that fishermen were taken away from the Naf River along with a trawler. We are investigating the reason for this incident. In addition, efforts are being made to bring them back quickly."

Describing such incidents as unfortunate, Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Sheikh Ehsan Uddin said, "We have just heard about the fishermen being abducted. We will discuss the incident with the BGB and try to bring them back."