Two Bangladeshi fishermen shot by Myanmar Navy

Two Bangladeshi fishermen were shot by the Myanmar Navy in Naf River in Cox's Bazar today.

The injured fishermen have been identified as Mohammad Faruq, son of Mohammad Siddique from Dakshin Para area at Shahpari island in Teknaf upazila in the district, and Mohammad Ismail (20), son of Ali Ahmad from Majher Dail area in the upazila.

The fishermen were returning to the shore through Naf River after fishing with a trawler in the sea.

This incident took place near Naikshyongdia area of the upazila around 10:30 am on Sunday (April 21).
Two injured fishermen are being treated at Upazila Health Complex.

Health complex sources said among the two fishermen, condition of Faruq is critical.

Mohammad Yusuf, driver of the trawler, said, “We were returning to Shahpari Island after fishing in the sea near St Martin. Meanwhile, a ship of the Myanmar Navy was passing us in the area adjacent to Naikxyongdia. Suddenly, soldiers from that ship started shooting at our trawler, injuring two fishermen of our trawler.”

“We were on the territorial waters of Bangladesh of the Naf River and were waving our hands, showing the Bangladeshi flag, signaling them not to shoot. Still, they did not stop shooting,” he added.

Teknaf Health Complex medical officer Dr Suraiya Yasmin said, “Among the fishermen, Ismail was slightly injured. He is being treated at Teknaf. Another fisherman, Faruq, received three bullet injuries. He is being sent to Cox's Bazar Sadar Hospital as his condition is critical.”