The Bangladesh Navy rescued 76 Malaysia-bound individuals, including 11 suspected members of a human trafficking syndicate, from a drifting vessel in the Bay of Bengal.

The operation was conducted late Wednesday night approximately 81 nautical miles off St Martin's Lighthouse during a routine patrol, according to an Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) press release issued on Friday morning.

The situation unfolded when the fishing vessel FV Crystal-1 spotted a wooden boat drifting in the sea with a disabled engine.

As the fishing crew approached to render assistance, they observed suspicious behavior among several individuals on board and immediately alerted naval authorities.

BNS Khalid Bin Walid, which was executing routine patrols in the St Martin's zone, responded promptly and reached the location.

"Water had entered the vessel after its engine and pump failed, putting those on board at risk," the ISPR stated.

Navy personnel successfully pumped out the water, stabilized the stranded craft, and rescued all 76 individuals on board, subsequently providing them with first aid, food, and necessary humanitarian assistance.

During initial questioning, authorities established that 11 of the 76 individuals were members of a human trafficking syndicate, while the remaining 65 were victims being illegally transported to Malaysia.

According to the Navy, a majority of the victims had been abducted and held captive at isolated locations in Teknaf prior to being forced onto the sea. The vessel was reportedly utilized for the unlawful maritime transportation of passengers.

The apprehended suspects alongside the confiscated vessel are being transferred to Teknaf Police Station for formal legal proceedings.

Naval officials noted that the swift intervention not only led to the apprehension of syndicate members but also averted a catastrophic maritime accident and loss of life given the vessel's compromised hull.

The Navy reaffirmed that the operation reflects its continuous patrols and surveillance operations aimed at safeguarding Bangladesh's maritime borders while curbing human trafficking, smuggling, and illicit activities at sea.