90 Bangladeshi, 95 Indian fishermen being freed: Foreign Adviser

A total of 95 Indian fishermen detained in Bangladesh and 90 Bangladeshi fishermen detained in India are being freed.

Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain said this while talking newsmen after a program on Thursday.

They will be freed on January 5.

Near the international maritime boundary, a total of 78 Bangladeshi fishermen and crews aboard two fishing vessels, FV Laila-2 and FV Meghna-5 were detained by Indian authorities on December 9 last. A total of 12 Bangladeshi fishermen were also rescued in Kakdwip in West Bengal.

Bangladesh authorities detained a total of 95 Indian fishermen and six fishing boats inside Bangladesh Waters during October and November 2024. The 95 Indian fishermen/crew members who were held in Bagerhat and Patuakhali District Jails.

This repatriation process is being facilitated through the joint efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Shipping, Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Bangladesh Coast Guard, Bangladesh Police, local administration, and other relevant agencies.  

The adviser inaugurated visiting the recently renovated DCAB (Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh) Lounge at the foreign ministry.    

Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin and DCAB outgoing President Nurul Islam Hasib spoke while newly elected president AKM Moinuddin was present along with the other DCAB members.