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A violent clash between fishermen and the Coast Guard in Patharghata, Barguna, on the night of Tuesday, June 17, 2025, left two fishermen shot and four others missing, according to allegations. The incident occurred at Baranani Khal, where the Bishkhali and Baleshwar rivers meet, after the Coast Guard detained two fishing trawlers. Fishermen accuse the Coast Guard of demanding a Tk 5 lakh extortion fee, looting fish, and threatening to destroy the trawlers. The dispute escalated into a confrontation, during which the Coast Guard allegedly opened fire, injuring Ismail Hawladar (35) and Aminul Islam (32) from Charduani, Patharghata. Four other fishermen jumped into the water in panic and remain missing.
Masum Akon, General Secretary of the District Trawler Owners’ Association, stated that despite showing valid documents and a court order, the Coast Guard refused to release the trawlers. Enraged fishermen vandalized a Coast Guard motorcycle and pickup vehicle. Patharghata police intervened to control the situation.
Patharghata Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Mizanur Rahman visited the site, urging both parties to remain calm. He said a meeting between the fishermen and Coast Guard resolved that trawler owners would avoid using illegal trawlers and compensate for the damaged Coast Guard property. However, he denied reports of shootings or missing fishermen, claiming the information was inaccurate.
Local fishermen allege regular extortion and assault by the Coast Guard, demanding an impartial investigation and punishment for those responsible
AI/MR
