Abul Kasem Rinku, a field assistant at Talatoli Upazila Fisheries Office and student leader, along with his father Jalil Fakir, Labour Affairs Secretary of the Upazila Awami League, has been accused of fishing hilsa illegally in the sea despite a government ban. The incident occurred late Sunday night at Fakirhat Fisheries Landing Center, Sonakata Union, Barguna. Local fishermen intercepted a large catch while it was being moved to Rinku’s fish market. Allegations suggest that Upazila Fisheries Officer Victor Bain may have colluded, allowing the father-son duo to violate regulations. Fishermen reported threats when they protested the illegal activity. Rinku denied involvement, claiming political harassment, while authorities promised a thorough investigation and legal action. The incident has drawn attention to misuse of political influence in fisheries and highlighted challenges in enforcing government fishing bans in coastal areas, sparking local unrest and media coverage.