Arakan Army abducts 11 Bangladeshi fishermen, seizes 2 trawlers

Myanmar's Arakan Army (AA) armed rebels have abducted two fishing trawlers and 11 Bangladeshi fishermen from the sea near Teknaf-Saint Martin's Island on Tuesday morning. 

Locals and the Trawler Owners' Association alleged that the fishermen were abducted at gunpoint from inside Bangladesh's border. 

Teknak Kayukkhali Boat Owners' Association General Secretary Abul Kalam said two more fishing boats remain missing. However, it could not be confirmed whether those were abducted as well. 

The incident has spread terror among the local fisherment and businessmen. He urged for the government's intervention to solve the matter. 

The matter is under scrutiny, Teknaf-2 BGB Battalion's Captain Lt. Col. Md Ashiqur Rahman said. 

Teknaf Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Sheikh Ehsan Uddin also confirmed the matter. 

Expressing anxiety, local fish trader Nurul Kayes said, "Fishermen are being abducted to Myanmar often. We are worried about it. If this cannot be solved, fishermen will not go fishing."