The Arakan Army has reportedly abducted seven Bangladeshi fishermen along with their fishing trawler from the southern waters of Saint Martin’s Island.
The abduction occurred in an area known as “Sita”, said Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer Sheikh Ehsan Uddin, who confirmed the incident and expressed concern.
Officials noted that due to navigability issues in Bangladeshi waters, fishermen are often forced into Myanmar’s territory, where such incidents have become increasingly frequent. According to trawler owners’ associations, at least 65 fishermen have been abducted this month alone.