Myanmar’s Arakan Army has returned 20 Bangladeshi fishermen who were taken captive from the Shah Porir Dwip in the Naf River on Tuesday.

The fishermen were handed over to the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) at Teknaf’s Shah Porir Dwip jetty on Thursday afternoon. Lt Col Md Mohiuddin Ahmed, commander of Teknaf-2 BGB, confirmed the matter. 

The process of returning the fishermen to their families has been completed, said the BGB official. 
Armed members of the separatist rebel group Arakan Army held the fishermen at gunpoint and seized 15 dinghy boats, taking them away into Myanmar territory.

The capture created an atmosphere of fear and concern among local fishing communities and the families of those taken. 

Efforts to secure their release began immediately, with the BGB engaging in discussions with the Arakan Army to ensure the safe return of the fishermen.