St. Martin, Nov 20 (V7N) - Ten Bangladeshi fishermen, along with a fishing trawler, were seized by members of the Arakan Army (AA) while returning from the Bay of Bengal, local officials confirmed on Wednesday. The incident occurred near St. Martin’s Island, according to Sajed Ahmed, president of the Kayukkhali Boat Owners’ Association in Teknaf.

Earlier, six fishermen with another trawler had been taken by the same armed group, raising growing concern and fear among the local fishing community.

The trawler’s owner, Md. Amin, reported that his vessel departed from Teknaf on Monday for a routine fishing trip. The capture occurred while returning from the Bay of Bengal, he added.

Myanmar-based media outlet Global Arakan Network stated that the Arakan Army’s coastal security unit intensified maritime patrols on October 28. During these operations, several Bangladeshi trawlers were found crossing into Arakanese waters. Between January 1 and July 18 this year, the AA reportedly detained 188 Bangladeshi fishermen and 30 boats, later releasing them. The recent incident reflects continued enforcement of these maritime boundaries.

Teknaf Upazila Executive Officer Sheikh Ehsan Uddin confirmed the latest seizure and said that authorities are investigating the matter in detail.

The repeated detentions have created widespread anxiety among the fishermen, many of whom fear venturing into traditional fishing grounds in the Bay of Bengal.

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