Arakan Government Arrests 16 Bangladeshi Fishermen for Illegally Entering Arakan Waters and Poaching Fish

Breaking News

Global Arakan Network November 18, 2025

Bangladeshi fishing boats have been repeatedly trespassing into Arakan territorial waters to illegally catch fish. In order to take strict action against such violations, the Arakan Coastal Security Patrol, operating from its base in Nga Khura (Nga Yant Chaung), departed at 05:30 AM to conduct a maritime patrol towards the Ngui Maw (Ingyaw) coastal area.

During the patrol:

1.      At approximately 07:15 AM, off the western coast of Thawaing Chaung village, Maungdaw Township—about 2.7 km from the shoreline—the patrol intercepted the first wooden fishing boat carrying 6 fishermen. Confiscated items included: 2 drift nets, 96 viss (approx. 154 kg) of fish and shrimp, 3 keypad mobile phones, and 520 taka (Bangladeshi currency).

2.      At approximately 09:50 AM, between Chainkhar Li and Done Paik, Rathedaung Township—about 3.58 km west of the coastline—the patrol intercepted the second fishing boat carrying 10 fishermen. Confiscated items included: 30 drift nets, 48 viss (approx. 77 kg) of fish and shrimp, 5 keypad mobile phones, and 80 taka.

A total of 16 Bangladeshi fishermen who illegally entered Arakan territorial waters to poach fish have been arrested. They, along with the seized boats and items, have been handed over to the relevant Arakan government departments for legal action in accordance with Arakan law.

It is reported that between January and July 18, 2025, Arakan authorities released approximately 188 Bangladeshi fishermen and 30 boats in the spirit of maintaining good bilateral relations. However, due to the lack of appropriate respect and reciprocal constructive response from Bangladeshi authorities, subsequent intruders have been detained and are being prosecuted under the law.