Arakan Army’s handover of 73 Bangladeshi fishermen signals potential boost in border cooperation

By Admin 17 Feb 2026

DMG Newsroom

17 February 2026, Maungdaw

The Arakan Army (AA) officially handed over 73 Bangladeshi fishermen detained for illegal fishing in Arakan waters to the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) on the evening of February 16.

The fishermen were apprehended by the Arakan Army throughout 2024 and 2025 after trespassing into Arakan territory to fish. They were released following legal investigations and the completion of official procedures.

Prior to their release, the Bangladeshi nationals reportedly took a formal oath in accordance with Islamic religious traditions, pledging not to cross the border illegally again, and signed bonds of undertaking.

Observers have described the move as a positive sign for stability along the border.

“The fact that the Arakan Army is handing over these nationals and the neighboring country is formally accepting them is a good omen for bilateral relations between the two sides,” said writer Wai Hun Aung.

The handover comes as Bangladesh prepares for a political transition following the general election on February 12, 2026, in which the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) won a landslide victory.

Observers say maintaining harmony and open communication is crucial to managing border affairs. The successful transfer is expected to encourage improved coordination on border trade and security management between the two sides.

Analysts suggest that resolving fishing disputes could help transform the Bangladesh-Arakan border into a “communication zone” for cooperation between the Arakan Army and the incoming Bangladeshi government.

“From an international relations perspective, problems can sometimes be transformed into opportunities. This cooperation provides a chance for governments to work together,” said Ko Pyae Sone, a student of international relations in Thailand. “Rather than viewing economic crises or border challenges as purely negative, turning them into opportunities for collaboration is a positive step forward.”

Border trade in Maungdaw has declined significantly in recent months due to tightened security measures by both Bangladeshi authorities and the Arakan Army, aimed at curbing the activities of Muslim armed groups in the region.

However, many believe the latest cooperation over the fishermen could help pave the way for renewed border economic opportunities through sustained bilateral engagement.