By Hafizur Rahman
Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh – June 6, 2026
Bangladesh Coast Guard members rescued 50 people, including 11 Rohingya refugees, from a boat near Teknaf in Cox’s Bazar on Friday night. Authorities believe the group was being taken illegally by sea to Malaysia as part of a human trafficking operation.
During the operation, Coast Guard personnel also detained nine people who are suspected of being involved in the trafficking network.
According to officials, the rescue took place near Baharchhara Union after security forces noticed a boat moving suspiciously in the area. When the boat was asked to stop, it reportedly tried to escape toward deeper waters. Coast Guard members chased the vessel and later stopped it.
The rescued people told authorities that traffickers had promised them good jobs and a better life abroad. Many were reportedly brought to Teknaf and kept in hidden locations before being prepared for the sea journey.
One rescued Rohingya refugee said, “We were told that we would find work and a better future. Instead, we were taken from place to place and lived in fear.”
Another survivor said, “Many of us were desperate for opportunities. We trusted the promises, but the journey became dangerous and uncertain.”
Authorities said the trafficking group planned to send the victims to countries such as Malaysia through illegal sea routes.
Legal action is being taken against those suspected of involvement in the trafficking operation, while officials continue investigating the case.
