By: Camp Correspondent
Cox’s Bazar, May 13, 2025 —
The Arakan Army (AA) opened fire on a group of Bangladeshi fishermen in the Naf River on May 12, injuring two and detaining three others, according to local sources in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar District.
The incident unfolded in two phases near Lada Union and Jaliapara, both located along the sensitive Bangladesh–Myanmar river border.
In the early morning, a group of fishermen reportedly approached the Myanmar side of the river. AA forces opened fire, injuring 18-year-old Hedayet Ullah and Mohammad Hussain. Both were transported to Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital, where they are said to be stable.
Later in the afternoon, AA troops arrived by boat and detained three more fishermen who had been fishing near Lada. The detained individuals have been identified as:
- Siddiq Hussain (27)
- Rabiul Alam (27)
- Mamad Hussain (30)
Family members of the detained men say they are extremely worried and are pleading for their safe return. Local residents have reported the incident to Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and other relevant authorities.
BGB Teknaf Battalion Commander, Lt. Col. Mohammad Ashekur Rahman, confirmed the events, stating:
“Fishing in the Naf River is restricted on both sides of the border. Despite repeated warnings, some fishermen continue to enter sensitive areas.”
He added that an investigation is underway and efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the detained fishermen.
This is not the first time such an incident has occurred. In the past, the AA has detained Bangladeshi fishermen and later released them through diplomatic coordination with the BGB.
The incident underscores the fragility of the border zone, where the line between livelihood and conflict often blurs. Authorities are urging fishermen to avoid entering disputed or restricted waters and to adhere strictly to safety guidelines to prevent escalation.
