Thirty-Seven Detained in Chittagong Over Illegal Destructive Trawling

The Bangladesh Coast Guard has intercepted two unauthorised artisanal trawling boats and detained thirty-seven individuals during a targeted night-time raid off the coast of Banshkhali, Chittagong. The operation, which also yielded a significant haul of prohibited trawling nets, marks another step in the authorities’ ongoing campaign against destructive and unregulated fishing practices in the Bay of Bengal.

Acting on precise intelligence, a specialised team from the Coast Guard’s Banshkhali contingent launched the sting operation at approximately 1:00 am on Sunday. The raid focused on the maritime waters adjacent to the Shekherkhil fish landing station, a known hub for local fishing activities. Upon cornering the vessels, maritime officers conducted a thorough search, uncovering fourteen illegal trawling nets hidden on board. All thirty-seven crew members were immediately taken into custody.

Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujan, the Coast Guard’s media officer, confirmed the details of the raid on Sunday afternoon. He stated that formal legal proceedings are currently being initiated against the detained fishermen, whilst the confiscated vessels and highly damaging equipment remain under state security.

Artisanal trawling with bottom-dragging nets poses a severe threat to the regional marine ecosystem. These fine-mesh nets indiscriminately scrape the seabed, capturing juvenile fish and destroying vital coral and seagrass habitats. To protect vulnerable marine life, the government enforces strict seasonal bans and equipment restrictions. Local fishing communities are frequently warned against using these destructive methods, yet the high market value of bulk catches continues to drive illicit trawling operations along the coastline.

The Coast Guard reiterated its commitment to preserving the nation’s precious marine resources. Officials emphasised that surveillance across the maritime boundary will be intensified in the coming weeks, with routine and surprise patrols continuing to target any unauthorised commercial operations that threaten the ecological balance of the delta.