The Bangladesh Coast Guard rescued five New Zealand tourists after they were attacked by assailants on a boat near Sonadia Island in Maheshkhali, Cox’s Bazar. The incident occurred on the night of April 8, 2026, when a group of criminals assaulted the tourists and looted their belongings. Acting swiftly, Coast Guard teams reached the scene, ensured the tourists’ safety, and recovered most of the stolen items. The attackers fled before they could be apprehended.

According to Coast Guard media officer Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujon, the tourists, led by New Zealand citizen John Edward Pudne, had arrived in Bangladesh in 2024 for a world tour by sea. Authorities had earlier discouraged them from such a voyage due to safety risks and noted that their passports had expired in January 2026. Despite the warnings, they continued their journey and anchored near Sonadia Island.

The rescued tourists are now in safe custody, and the Coast Guard is coordinating with relevant ministries to determine their next steps. Search operations continue to locate the attackers and recover remaining stolen property.