Bangladesh Coast Guard Acknowledges and Cooperates to Address Illegal Fishing in Arakan’s Waters

News Analysis

Global Arakan Network August 31, 2025

Arrested Fishermen by BCG (photocrd)

Since January 2025, illegal fishing in Arakan’s territorial waters has posed a persistent challenge to enforcing the rule of law and maintaining security along the Naf River and Arakan coast. As of August 2025, Arakan authorities have detained at least 50 illegal fishermen from Bangladesh and have sought constructive collaboration with the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).

On August 29, the Bangladesh Coast Guard (BCG) took decisive action to address the issue, detaining 122 fishermen and seizing 19 fishing boats for illegally fishing in Arakan’s territorial waters. This was confirmed by the Coast Guard’s media officer, Lieutenant Commander Siam-ul-Haq, on Friday afternoon.

He stated,

“Based on information that several Bangladeshi fishing boats had crossed the zero line of the Myanmar-Bangladesh maritime border and illegally entered Arakan’s waters near Shahporir Dwip in Sabrang Union under Teknaf Thana, the Coast Guard’s Shahpori Outpost conducted a special operation.”

This action reflects an improvement in Bangladesh’s efforts to foster better relations with Arakan authorities. Lieutenant Commander Siam-ul-Haq added,

Arakan Authorities Sent Back Fishermen (photocrd)

“The legal process for the detained fishermen and seized boats is underway. To ensure the safety of fishermen, the Bangladesh Coast Guard will continue such operations in the future.”

For Arakan authorities, building strong relations with Bangladesh is essential, as both are close neighbors and aim to resolve other critical issues of common interest through constructive means.