Arakan Army Hands Over 24 Bangladeshi Fishermen on Humanitarian Grounds

News ၊ August 19, 2026

Officials from the Arakan Army (AA) and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) meeting and holding discussions during the handover of Bangladeshi fishermen in the Naf River.

The Arakan Army (AA) handed over 24 Bangladeshi fishermen back to Bangladesh today, August 19, on humanitarian grounds after they were detained for illegal fishing in Arakan territorial waters in Maungdaw Township.

The fishermen were detained for illegally entering Arakan territorial waters to fish during 2024 and 2025. The handover was systematically conducted by officials from both sides in the Naf River near the Kanyin Chaung Economic Zone in Maungdaw Township.

During the meeting, Warrant Officer Bella from the BGB told the Arakan Army official: "I am glad to meet you. I am Warrant Officer Bella. How many personnel are present on your side? Our team includes around 15 Coast Guard members and approximately 17 BGB personnel. If other fishermen enter illegally like this in the future, we would appreciate your help by issuing warnings and letting them return, rather than making arrests."

During the transfer, officials from the Arakan Army met and held discussions with representatives from the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) to coordinate the safe return of the fishermen.

Over 60 security personnel from the Arakan Army escorted the fishermen to the transfer location in the Naf River, where they were safely handed over to BGB officials.

One released Bangladeshi fisherman expressed gratitude to the Arakan Army for his release on humanitarian grounds, stating he would refrain from unauthorized fishing in Arakan waters in the future.

Despite repeated warnings by the Arakan Army against unauthorized entry into Arakan waters, some Bangladeshi fishermen continue to enter and fish, prompting ongoing arrests and legal actions.

Authorities continue to detain and take action against illegal fishermen according to established regulations, while also considering humanitarian factors to release detainees.

Previously on February 16, 2026, the Arakan Army handed over 73 Bangladeshi fishermen who had been detained for unauthorized fishing in Arakan territorial waters.

A political analyst noted that releasing the fishermen on humanitarian grounds serves as a humanitarian action and helps build trust to foster better bilateral relations.

"Releasing the fishermen on humanitarian grounds is an action rooted in empathy. On the other hand, it helps build trust to resolve border issues through bilateral dialogue and negotiations. Continued actions like this could further improve relations between both sides," the analyst stated.

Analysts also observed that the direct discussions between AA and BGB officials in the Naf River could serve as an important communication channel to address maritime and fishery issues moving forward.

While the Arakan Army maintains surveillance and enforcement to prevent illegal fishing in its waters, combining these measures with humanitarian releases helps de-escalate border tensions and open avenues for stronger bilateral relations.

Source@crd