20 Bangladeshi fishermen reportedly ‘kidnapped’ by Arakan Army near Naf River

Members of Myanmar’s Arakan Army reportedly kidnapped 20 Bangladeshi fishermen while they were fishing in the Naf River in Teknaf.

Abdus Salam, union ward member of Sabrang upazila, said the incident took place around 4:30 pm today (November 5) near Naikhongchhari area, at the mouth of Naf river and Bay of Bengal.

“The fishermen were taken away in two motorized and 13 non-motorized boats while they were fishing at the mouth of the river. Arriving on a large trawler, Arakan Army soldiers took them away at gunpoint.

“All of them are from the Jaliyapara area of ​​Shahparir Island, which is part of the Union,” he added.

However, he could not confirm the names of the victims.

Teknaf Upazila executive director Adnan Chowdhury said he has informed the relevant authorities about the matter.

When asked about the incident, Teknaf 2nd Battalion commander Lt Col Mohiuddin Ahmed said he learned about the incident from local residents and families.

“We are in communication with the Myanmar authorities regarding this issue.”