The Arakan Army has abducted six men along with two trawlers navigating the Teknaf-St Martin route, seizing the vessels from the Naf River estuary in the Bay of Bengal.
The trawlers, carrying rods, cement, and other materials, were en route to St Martin’s Island when the incident occurred. The abduction follows recent incidents involving the capture of local fishermen.
"Yesterday, two trawlers laden with rods and cement, departing from Teknaf, were intercepted by Arakan Army members at the Naf River estuary. Six staff members aboard, all residents of St Martin’s Island, were taken," said Teknaf-St Martin Boat Owners' Association President Abdur Rashid.
"One of the seized trawlers belongs to me. The matter has been reported to law enforcement agencies," he added.
Nur Alam, a resident of St Martin’s Island, stated, "The two trawlers carrying six individuals were seized en route from Teknaf to the island. This has caused fear and concern among their families."
Mujibur Rahman, Chairman of the St Martin Union Parishad, remarked, "I have heard reports about the abduction of six people with two cargo-laden trawlers being taken to Myanmar. We are gathering more details on who might be involved and the circumstances."
However, Teknaf-2 BGB Commander Lt. Col. Mohiuddin Ahmed said they had not been officially informed about such incidents.
Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Adnan Chowdhury said, "I have heard about the incident, but no specific information has yet been confirmed. If precise details are obtained, efforts will be made to communicate with the Arakan Army through BGB and Coast Guard to ensure the fishermen's return."
