Bangladesh Joint forces have intensified their operations to combat Sundarbans piracy and rescue abducted fishermen. The operation, which began on February 24, 2026, involves the Rapid Action Battalion, Coast Guard, Navy, and Police, targeting remote areas like Dublar Char, Harbaria, Kokilmoni, Nandobara, and Jongra.
Fishermen in the region have faced severe security threats, with pirates demanding hefty ransoms and subjecting captives to inhumane treatment. Kamal Ahmed, president of the Dublar Fishermen Group, highlighted the financial losses due to halted fishing activities during the peak season.
The abductions occurred on February 16, 2026, when the notorious Jahangir and Suman pirate groups captured 20 fishermen from the Bay of Bengal. The pirates demanded a ransom of Tk 3.50 lakh per trawler, totaling Tk 70 lakh, and negotiations are ongoing.
Fishing activities have partially resumed under strict guidelines from the Forest Department, urging trawlers to stay close to shore. The security operation will continue until all hostages are freed and the Sundarbans are cleared of criminal elements.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 27th, 2026
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