Twelve Bangladeshi fishermen from two trawlers were reportedly abducted by members of Myanmar’s armed rebel group, the Arakan Army (AA), early Thursday near the eastern side of St. Martin’s Island in the Bay of Bengal. The fishermen, led by boatmen from St. Martin’s, were fishing when one trawler’s engine failed, leaving them vulnerable. Local trawler owners confirmed the incident, saying the fishermen were taken away at dawn. The Arakan Army has recently intensified coastal patrols, claiming to intercept Bangladeshi boats entering Myanmar’s waters. Reports indicate that since January, the group has detained around 188 Bangladeshi fishermen and 30 boats, later releasing some. Local fishing communities are in fear, as over a hundred fishermen remain missing from previous abductions. Bangladeshi authorities have acknowledged the latest incident and stated that law enforcement agencies are investigating the matter and coordinating with relevant authorities for the fishermen’s safe return.