Members of Myanmar’s armed group, the Arakan Army (AA), have abducted 13 Bangladeshi fishermen and seized three fishing trawlers near the mouth of the Naf River in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar, local officials and residents confirmed.
The incident occurred on Saturday morning as the fishermen were returning from the Bay of Bengal after fishing near Naikhyangdia, adjacent to Shahporir Island.
The trawlers involved are reportedly owned by Kalu, also known as Mola Halu, Mustafiz, and Mir Kasim — all residents of Shahporir Island under Sabrang Union in Teknaf Upazila.
The abducted fishermen have been identified as Mostafizur Rahman, Farid Hossain, Robiul Hasan, Kalam, Md Hossain Ahmad, Mir Kasem Ali, Gias Uddin, Salauddin, Mohiuddin, Molla Kalu Mia, Abu Taher, Abdul Khalek, and Jaber Mia. All are believed to be from various villages on Shahporir Island.
Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer Imamul Hafiz Nadim said local authorities have taken note of the incident and are assessing the circumstances surrounding the abduction. “We are working in coordination with border law enforcement agencies to ensure the safe return of the fishermen,” he said.
The incident has triggered widespread anxiety among local fishing communities who depend on the Naf River and adjacent coastal waters for their livelihoods.
A resident of Shahporir Island, Ibn Amin, said the repeated abductions have intensified fear among families. “The Arakan Army has again taken fishermen from our community. Some of the victims are our relatives, and people are deeply worried,” he said.
Shahporir Island Union Parishad member Abdus Salam also confirmed the abduction, noting that the incident has spread panic across the area. He added that the matter has been formally communicated to the relevant authorities.
Local sources claim that over the past two years, the Arakan Army has abducted at least 500 fishermen from the Teknaf coastal region. While approximately 300 have been released, around 200 are still believed to be in captivity.
The most recent release occurred on February 16, when 73 fishermen were returned, offering temporary relief to affected communities. However, recurring incidents continue to underscore the persistent insecurity along the Bangladesh–Myanmar maritime border.
