17/02/2026
73 Fishermen, Including 7 Rohingya , Return Home
AR Mission English | 16 February 2026
A total of 73 fishermen, including 66 Bangladeshis and 7 Rohingya refugees, have returned home after being detained by the Arakan Army.
According to officials, the fishermen were detained at different times in 2025 after they accidentally crossed Bangladesh’s sea border while fishing in the Bay of Bengal and entered Myanmar waters. They were later taken to camps in Myanmar controlled by the Arakan Army.
After discussions and efforts by security agencies in the Cox’s Bazar area, an agreement was reached for their return in phases.
In the first phase, the 73 fishermen were handed over at the zero line of the Naf River on 16 February. They were then brought back to Teknaf Jetty Ghat. Authorities have completed identity checks, and steps are being taken to reunite them with their families.
Their return has brought great relief to their families, who had been waiting for months. Officials said efforts are continuing to bring back the remaining fishermen who are still in custody.
