'Arakan Army' involved in abduction of eleven fishermen from Bay region

Eleven fishermen and two fishing boats were reportedly abducted by members of Myanmar’s armed insurgent group, the Arakan Army, on Tuesday morning. The incident occurred in the Bay of Bengal near Teknaf and Saint Martin’s Island, raising concerns about the security of Bangladesh’s maritime boundary.

Local Claims and Eyewitness Accounts
Local residents and the Teknaf Boat Owners’ Association alleged that the Arakan Army crossed into Bangladeshi waters and forcibly abducted the fishermen at gunpoint. Abul Kalam, General Secretary of the Teknaf Kayukhali Boat Owners’ Association, confirmed that his own boat was among those taken and suggested that more fishermen and boats may also be missing.

Official Statements and Response
Lt Col Md Ashikur Rahman, Commander of Teknaf-2 Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), stated that efforts are ongoing to collect detailed information about the abduction. Abdul Mannan, a Union Parishad member from Shah Porir Island, reported that several boats from his locality were chased by the insurgents, although the exact location of the abduction remains unclear.

Administrative Action
Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Sheikh Ehsan Uddin confirmed that he has received reports of the incident. He assured that discussions will be held with law enforcement agencies to initiate necessary steps for the safe return of the abducted fishermen.