by Hafizur Rahman
Bay of Bengal | January 04, 2026
The Bangladesh Navy has arrested 273 Rohingya refugees who were attempting to travel illegally to Malaysia by sea, following a special operation near Saint Martin’s Island in the Bay of Bengal.
According to naval officials, the operation was carried out on the night of January 3 after the Navy received intelligence about a suspicious wooden boat moving through the area. Acting on the information, the navy ship Independence intercepted the vessel during routine maritime patrols aimed at preventing human trafficking, illegal migration, and smuggling.
During a search of the boat, naval personnel found 273 Rohingya men, women, and children on board. Officials said the group was trying to reach Malaysia through an illegal and highly dangerous sea route.
The Navy said the boat was overcrowded and lacked sufficient food, drinking water, and basic life-saving equipment, putting everyone on board at serious risk. Officials warned that such journeys often end in tragedy due to rough seas, poor navigation, and exploitation by traffickers.
After the interception, the rescued Rohingya were provided with immediate basic assistance. They were later handed over to the Teknaf Police Station for further legal procedures.
Naval authorities said patrols in the Bay of Bengal will continue to be strengthened to combat human trafficking networks, prevent illegal sea crossings, and safeguard Bangladesh’s maritime borders.
The incident highlights the continued desperation among Rohingya refugees, many of whom attempt perilous sea journeys due to lack of protection, livelihood opportunities, and long-term solutions to their displacement.
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