Arakan Army Abducts 13 Bangladeshi Fishermen Near Saint Martin’s

In a troubling development in the Bay of Bengal, thirteen Bangladeshi fishermen were reportedly abducted by the Myanmar-based armed group, the Arakan Army, while fishing near Saint Martin’s Island. The abductions occurred during two separate operations on Tuesday, 23 December, in the morning and early afternoon, according to local sources.

Authorities have confirmed the identities of six of the captives, who are residents of Saint Martin’s Island and nearby coastal areas. The identities of the remaining seven fishermen have yet to be established. The confirmed individuals are: Nur Mohammad (60), Hamid Hossain (45), Md. Hampuro (15), Jasim Uddin (18), Harun Mia (40), and Md. Habibullah (60) from Shamolapur, Teknaf.

Local fisherman Kalim Uddin, a resident of Saint Martin’s, described the first incident. “Around 8:00 a.m., six fishermen were intercepted at gunpoint by Arakan Army members while fishing in the southwestern waters, close to Myanmar’s Mungdhu area,” he said. “The abductors also seized the boat, the day’s catch, and fishing nets.”

In a separate operation around midday, another seven fishermen were captured from a second engine-powered boat in the same vicinity, local reports indicate. These repeated incidents have caused alarm among Saint Martin’s Island residents and the wider coastal community, prompting fears over safety and livelihoods.

Despite repeated reports to authorities, neither the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) nor the Coast Guard have issued an official statement regarding the abductions. Local communities have voiced urgent demands for increased patrolling, surveillance, and immediate action to secure the release of the captives.

The abductions highlight the precarious situation for Bangladeshi fishermen operating near contested maritime zones adjacent to Myanmar. Experts warn that continued attacks could disrupt the local fishing industry, threaten livelihoods, and escalate tensions along the maritime border. Families of the abducted fishermen remain anxious, awaiting news of their loved ones’ safety.

Confirmed Abducted Fishermen:

Local authorities and residents continue to monitor the situation closely, urging swift intervention to prevent further abductions and safeguard the coastal community’s security and economic well-being.