Arakan Army hands over 73 Bangladeshi fishermen

Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has brought back 73 Bangladeshi fishermen who were taken away at various times from the Teknaf coast and Naf River area in Cox's Bazar. Following continuous communication and negotiations with Myanmar's armed organisation Arakan Army, they were brought back to the country around 4:30 pm on Monday, February 16.

BGB Ramu Sector Commander Colonel Mohiuddin Ahmed said a BGB delegation left from Teknaf's Jaliapara Transit Ghat towards the zero line of the Naf River on Monday afternoon. Later, Arakan Army members handed over the fishermen at a designated point in the Naf River.

From there, they were brought back and handed over to their relatives in the presence of local public representatives and administration.

He further said the Arakan Army claimed these fishermen were detained for entering Myanmar territory by crossing the water boundary. However, BGB is continuing negotiations to bring back the other fishermen still in custody.

Returning fisherman Nurul Alam said they were physically tortured while in custody. He alleged that regular food was not provided and many were beaten. "Being able to return alive to the country is the main thing," he said.