The Bangladesh Coast Guard has rescued 18 fishermen along with a fishing boat that was left adrift after suffering an engine failure in deep waters. After receiving first aid and food, the fishermen were safely handed over to the boat’s owner along with the vessel.

Coast Guard Media Officer Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujan confirmed the incident on Wednesday (5 August).

According to him, the fishing boat FB Nishan-2, carrying 18 fishermen, was returning to shore after fishing at around 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday (4 August) when its engine failed approximately 10 nautical miles from the Sangu Gas Field. The disabled vessel was left drifting in the open sea.

At around 1:00 p.m., one of the fishermen informed the boat owner by phone. The owner then sought assistance by calling the national emergency service 999, which immediately alerted the Bangladesh Coast Guard.

Responding to the distress call, the Coast Guard patrol ship Shyamol Bangla rushed to the scene and launched a rescue operation. All 18 fishermen, along with the disabled fishing boat, were successfully rescued without any casualties.

Following the rescue, the fishermen were provided with first aid and necessary food before being handed over to the boat owner together with the vessel.

The Bangladesh Coast Guard said it will continue conducting emergency rescue operations to ensure the safety of fishermen operating in the country’s coastal and offshore waters.