According to fishermen from multiple districts bordering the Sundarbans - including Satkhira, Bagerhat and Khulna - more than 10 pirate groups are now active inside the forest. “If a fisherman shows the token, pirates let him go. Sources familiar with the region estimate that a single pirate group of 10–15 members can earn Tk2–5 crore annually, creating strong incentives for criminal resurgence. Habibur Rahman (pseudonym), a former fisherman and ex-member of a surrendered pirate group, said he stopped entering the forest after pirates returned. Coast Guard operations and rescuesAmid the deteriorating situation, the Bangladesh Coast Guard has played a central role in countering piracy through intelligence-driven operations.

Source: Dhaka Tribune January 20, 2026 18:03 UTC