Fisherman killed in pirate gun attack in Bay of Bengal

A 17-year-old fisherman was shot dead by sea pirates while fishing in the Bay of Bengal off the coast of Kutubdia upazila in Cox's Bazar district on Wednesday afternoon.

The deceased was identified as Shahadat Hossain, son of the late Md Badsha, a resident of Uttar Dhurung Mansur Ali Hajir Para.

According to locals, the incident occurred around midday on Wednesday when a group of pirates attacked a fishing boat carrying twenty crew members.

The boat, owned by Nasir Uddin and operated by his brother Jasim Uddin, was engaged in fishing in the western Kutubdia sea area when the assault took place.

"The pirates attempted to board our boat but failed. In frustration, they opened fire and Shahadat was hit by a bullet," said boat owner Nasir Uddin.

Later, the injured teenager was rushed to Kutubdia Upazila Health Complex after the boat returned to shore around 11:30 PM, but the on-duty doctor declared him dead on arrival.

Kutubdia Police Station officer-in-charge (OC) Md Mahbubul Alam confirmed the death and said that the body has been sent to Cox's Bazar General Hospital morgue for an autopsy.

He added that legal proceedings are underway in connection with the incident.

SU/AM