by Hafizur Rahman
Rakhine State, October 28, 2025 — The Arakan Army (AA) has detained four Bangladeshi fishermen for allegedly fishing illegally in Rakhine’s territorial waters, according to local reports.
The fishermen, who reportedly came from the Teknaf area of Bangladesh, were captured around 7 a.m. on October 27 while operating without permission in Rakhine’s sea zone. When AA forces approached their boat, the fishermen tried to flee but were later apprehended.
AA authorities stated that the four men would be punished in accordance with the law and warned Bangladeshi nationals not to cross into Rakhine waters for unauthorized fishing.
In recent months, several Bangladeshi fishing boats have been found operating illegally in Rakhine’s coastal and Naf River areas. The AA claimed that while they had previously released detained fishermen after issuing warnings, repeated violations have now prompted stricter legal measures.
According to sources, more than 30 Bangladeshi fishermen are currently in AA custody for illegal fishing activities in Rakhine waters.
