AA Releases 21 Bangladeshi Fishermen After Detention in Rakhine Waters

By: Camp Correspondent

March 15, 2025

The Arakan Army (AA) has released 21 Bangladeshi fishermen who were detained for allegedly crossing into Rakhine waters and handed them over to Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), AA spokesperson Khaing Thukha confirmed today.

Detention and Release of Fishermen

According to AA officials, the fishermen were apprehended while engaging in illegal fishing in waters under AA-controlled territory. However, after negotiations and verification, the detained individuals were released and repatriated to Bangladesh.

Before their release, the fishermen were required to sign an agreement pledging that they would not illegally enter Rakhine waters again. The AA stated that this measure was taken to prevent future violations while also acknowledging the financial struggles of the fishermen’s families.

Ongoing Border Tensions and Previous Incidents

This is not the first time the Arakan Army has detained Bangladeshi fishermen for alleged border violations. In late 2024, several Bangladeshi fishermen were similarly detained by the AA before being handed over to Bangladeshi authorities.

AA has repeatedly warned against illegal fishing in their controlled waters, citing sovereignty concerns. However, such incidents continue to occur, raising tensions between the two sides.

Improving Cross-Border Cooperation

Despite these tensions, the AA emphasized its commitment to diplomatic cooperation with Bangladesh. In a statement, the group noted that border-related coordination between AA and Bangladeshi authorities has been improving, allowing detained fishermen to be released without harsh penalties.

“We are working towards better cooperation on border issues. However, repeated violations will lead to stricter actions in the future,” an AA spokesperson stated.

AA Issues Final Warning

While showing leniency in this instance, the Arakan Army has issued a stern warning:

• Any future cases of illegal fishing or unauthorized entry into Rakhine waters will result in investigations and punishment according to AA’s regulations.
• Despite this, they reaffirmed their commitment to repatriating detained individuals to Bangladesh rather than imposing severe penalties.

Border Security Challenges Persist

This latest incident highlights ongoing disputes over fishing rights in the Naf River and adjacent coastal areas, where Bangladeshi fishermen often enter Rakhine waters due to lack of clear maritime boundaries and economic pressures.

Both Myanmar and Bangladesh continue to grapple with border management issues, including fishing rights, security concerns, and refugee movements, underscoring the need for stronger bilateral agreements and conflict resolution mechanisms to prevent future escalations.