24 Bangladeshi fishermen detained by Arakan Army return home

24 fishermen, including 18 Bangladeshi citizens and 6 Forcefully Displaced Myanmar citizens (FDMNs), who were held by Myanmar’s Arakan Army, have been sent home due to the initiative and humanitarian efforts of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). The fishermen were picked up by a BGB team on Wednesday near the Naf River zero line and transported to the Teknaf Jetty Ghat. According to official sources, the fishermen were caught and detained in rebel-controlled areas after unintentionally entering Myanmar seas while fishing in the Bay of Bengal between 2025 and 2026.

Before releasing the returned persons to their families, local authorities and law enforcement agencies are now confirming their identities. The BGB promised that efforts are still being made to ensure the safe repatriation of the remaining prisoners, and the return has greatly relieved their families. According to BGB data, 348 of the 434 fishermen caught by the Arakan Army between January 1, 2025, and August 19, 2026, have been safely sent home, leaving 86 people—65 Bangladeshis and 21 FDMNs—in detention.

The commander of Teknaf Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Md. Hanifur Rahman Bhuiyan, emphasised the force’s dedication to humanitarian duties and national security. He stated, ‘BGB always performs a responsible role in guaranteeing the protection of our residents’ lives and property in addition to protecting borders. BGB will continue to uphold its constitutional duties as a symbol of border security and trust. This successful repatriation was made possible by BGB’s professionalism, sincerity, and effective coordination during humanitarian crises’.