The AA Coast Guard has detained 13 Bangladeshi fishermen who were illegally fishing in the waters of Rakhine on two boats.

A boat containing six Bangladeshi fishermen was detected engaging in illegal fishing close to the coast of Koe Tankok village in Rathedaung Township. Additionally, another boat with seven fishermen was discovered anchored, with broken engines, between the Koe Tankok and Chaingkhali villages.

According to a source affiliated with the AA, these vessels were taken by the AA Coast Guard security forces on the morning of November 12.

“Indeed, we caught them. We captured two more today," he stated.

A community member also stated that Bangladeshi fishermen have been encroaching into Rakhine State and are increasingly poaching fish.

“The waters where we caught them are quite far from the maritime boundaries of Bangladesh. They have entered into Rakhine State for fishing activities. Even if they were to return to Bangladesh, the distance is considerable. If they continue to travel a bit more, they will arrive at Sittwe. That itself demonstrates their audacity," he stated.

The 13 fishermen who have been apprehended are presently in custody and under investigation to ensure that they are dealt with in accordance with the law.

The AA has apprehended 17 Bangladeshi fishermen for illegally catching fish in the Rakhine Sea over the last 10 days, from October 27 to November 5.

On August 28, U Khaing Thukha, the spokesperson for the Arakan Army (AA), communicated to Narinjara that strict and decisive measures will be implemented against vessels engaged in illegal fishing in the waters.