128 Bangladeshi Fishermen Repatriated in Landmark Border Exchange

The Chronify

January 31, 2026

Following a successful diplomatic and maritime exchange, 128 Bangladeshi fishermen have been reunited with their families after being detained in India. The coordinated operation, supervised by the coast guards of both nations, saw a reciprocal release of detained personnel and vessels at the maritime boundary.

A bilateral exchange between Bangladesh and India concluded on Friday, resulting in the return of 128 Bangladeshi fishermen. The operation, confirmed by Bangladesh Coast Guard Media Officer Lieutenant Commander Siam-ul-Haq, marks the end of a detention period sparked by maritime boundary violations in late 2025.

The exchange was organized to resolve two separate sets of detentions:

Bangladeshi Detainees: 128 fishermen and five boats were held by the Indian Coast Guard following incidents on November 16, 17, 19, and 30, 2025.
Indian Detainees: 23 fishermen and two boats were previously intercepted by the Bangladesh Navy on October 18 and 23, 2025, for illegal fishing.

The handover took place at the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) on Thursday under the direct supervision of both countries' coast guards. This successful repatriation was the result of extensive diplomatic efforts led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Upon their arrival at the Bangladesh Coast Guard Base in Mongla at 11:00 am today, the returned fishermen were formally handed over to their waiting family members along with their vessels.