Twenty-nine Bangladeshi fishermen who were taken by Myanmar’s Arakan Army, were returned by the group after a week.
The fishermen were brought back to Bangladesh on Thursday through the jetty at Shah Porir Dwip in Teknaf.
Experts suggest strategic engagement with Arakan Army to safeguard Bangladesh's interests
“The 29 fishermen, who were taken by the Arakan Army while fishing in the Naf River, have been brought back. Their health is being checked, and after the necessary procedures, they will be handed over to their families,” said Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer Sheikh Ehsan Uddin.
The return was facilitated by the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), who assisted in ensuring their safe passage back to the country.
Ten of the returning fishermen were identified as Md. Kala Mia (37), Md. Nurul Alam (39), Abdul Rahman (19), Md. Abul Kalam Ahmed (29), Md. Lalu (11), Md. Kabir Ahmed (43), Mohammad Yunus (23), Nurul Islam (34), Md. Lutfor Rahman (23), and Rahim Ullah (21). All are residents of Shah Porir Dwip, Majherpara. The names of the remaining fishermen were yet to be known.
Bangladesh in touch with both Myanmar govt and Arakan Army: Home Adviser
According to local authorities, the group of 29 fishermen, who had accidentally crossed the border while fishing on February 11 and 20, were held by the Arakan Army. The fishermen had been aboard six motorised boats when they were captured by the group.