The Arakan Army, a separatist armed group from Myanmar, has released 24 Bangladeshi fishermen who were captured in the Bay of Bengal near Saint Martin's Island.
On Saturday (March 15) afternoon, the fishermen were brought back to Bangladesh through the Shahparir Dwip jetty in Teknaf by the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).
Lt. Colonel Ashikur Rahman, commander of Teknaf 2 BGB, confirmed the return of the 24 fishermen, explaining that they were detained near Saint Martin's Island. They were brought through Shahparir Dwip jetty, where they are currently undergoing medical tests. Once cleared, they will be handed over to their families.
Lt. Colonel Rahman stated that the fishermen had unintentionally crossed the Bangladesh-Myanmar maritime boundary while fishing, which led to their capture. Efforts are underway to raise awareness among the fishermen about this issue.
Teknaf Upazila Executive Officer Sheikh Ehsan mentioned that the fishermen, who were detained by Myanmar’s Arakan Army while fishing, are now being returned, and the process of returning them to their families is underway.