Narinjara News, June 13, 2025

Reports indicate that Bangladeshi fishing boats are illegally entering Rakhine waters and continuing their poaching activities.

These fishermen appear to be capitalizing on the ongoing conflict in Rakhine State and the insufficient administrative measures in place by the Arakan Army, enabling them to intrude into local waters with impunity.

Currently, Bangladeshi fishing boats are active along the southern coast of Maungdaw Township and the southwestern coast of Rathedaung Township, particularly around the Mayu Peninsula.

"Bangladeshi fishing boats are frequently spotted along the beaches of Kyaukpandhu and Inn Din villages in southern Maungdaw Township, as well as in Donpaik, Cheinkhali, and Kotankauk in Rathedaung Township," reported U Hla Tun from Inn Din village.

Despite several attempts to apprehend them by the Arakan Army, these boats persist in their illegal fishing activities.

"These vessels are often seen flying the Bangladeshi flag, and they operate as close as a mile from shore, using large nets to catch various types of fish, including carp," he stated.

At night, the sea is illuminated with lights from these boats, and illegal fishing is observed occurring daily.

Locals mention that each Bangladeshi fishing vessel typically carries 5 to 10 fishermen who operate in Rakhine waters around the clock, raising concerns about the need for action.

The ULA/AA has confirmed that Bangladeshi fishing boats are indeed intruding into Rakhine waters for the purpose of fishing.

While the Arakan Army regularly detains these intruding boats and their crews, handing them over to Bangladeshi authorities, little action is taken against them by the latter.

Furthermore, analysts note that Bangladeshi media often criticize the Arakan Army instead of addressing the actions of the fishermen, which may inadvertently encourage further illegal fishing activities in Rakhine waters.

Given these conditions, Bangladeshi fishermen are continuing to enter Rakhine waters in groups without fear, persisting in their illegal fishing endeavors.