The Bangladesh Coast Guard has rescued 13 fishermen alive after their fishing boat broke down and drifted for four days in the deep Bay of Bengal south of Teknaf-Saint Martin’s.
Coast Guard media officer Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujon confirmed the information on Tuesday, Sept 29.
According to the Coast Guard, the fishing boat FV Rifat left Teknaf on Sept 25 with 13 fishermen aboard to catch fish in the deep sea.
After completing their fishing activities, the boat began its return journey around 4pm on Sept 28. However, its engine suddenly broke down south of Saint Martin’s, leaving the boat without control and drifting in rough seas.
The situation caused panic among the fishermen.
One of the fishermen called the Coast Guard’s emergency service number and requested immediate assistance.
After receiving the information, the Coast Guard’s modern patrol vessel BCGS Syed Nazrul, which was operating in the deep sea, immediately launched a rescue operation.
Despite the highly risky conditions, the Coast Guard successfully rescued all 13 fishermen alive and unharmed.
After the rescue, the Coast Guard provided the fishermen with initial medical treatment as well as necessary dry food and drinking water.
The Coast Guard said the legal process is currently underway to hand over the rescued fishing boat and fishermen to the owner’s representatives so they can be returned to their respective families.
