Pirate gangs surge in Sundarbans; 22 fishermen abducted

The Sundarbans have been witnessing a surge of pirates gangs as at least 22 fishermen were reportedly been kidnapped over the last 48 hours.

The kidnappings took place in several areas within the Satkhira Range, including Chunkuri, the upper reaches of the Malancha River, Chaltabere, Maitbhanga and Pashurtala canal between Sunday morning and Monday evening. 

The victims are residents of Munshiganj, Ramjannagar and Ishwaripur unions of Shyamnagar upazila.

The fishermen who survived the abduction stated that they had entered the forest with valid permits to catch fish and crabs. while the priates of two groups named 'Alim' and 'Nanabhai' reportedly detained 28 to 30 individuals across various canals. Among the victims, only 22 have been identitied so far. 

While five fishermen were released after being assaulted, under the condition that they will arrange ransom for the others who remain in captivity.

Families of the hostages stated that a specific ransom amount has not yet been demanded, though they expect communication once the pirates move into areas with mobile network coverage. 

Assistant Conservator of Forests for the Satkhira Range, Moshiur Rahman, confirmed that the Coast Guard has been notified about the incidents. 

However, Shyamnagar Police Station officer-in-charge (OC) Khaledur Rahman noted that no families have officially filed a complaint regarding the incidents. 

TZ