Local Correspondent ; Cox’s Bazar- Four fishermen have lost their lives and another remains missing after a fishing trawler capsized amidst hostile weather in the Kutubdia Channel of the Bay of Bengal near Cox’s Bazar.
The incident occurred early Monday near Kutubdia Island. The vessel, identified as the “FB Fakira Masjid” owned by Nurul Absar from the Amjakhali area of Kutubdia Upazila, was carrying 12 fishermen when it fell victim to turbulent seas.
While seven fishermen were successfully rescued, search operations continue under challenging conditions to locate the single remaining missing crew member.
Sudden Storm Triggers Offshore Disaster
The fishing expedition began on Sunday morning when the crew departed from the Amjakhali Ghat heading into the deep sea.
However, weather conditions deteriorated rapidly by Monday morning. Powerful, towering waves battered the vessel, ultimately causing it to capsize.
Seven of the twelve crew members managed to survive—some by swimming to safety, while others were pulled from the water by a nearby fishing vessel.
The deceased have been identified as:
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Md. Sagar (Amjakhali, Baraghop Union, Kutubdia)
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Md. Karim (Amjakhali, Baraghop Union, Kutubdia)
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Md. Aiyub Monir (Amjakhali, Baraghop Union, Kutubdia)
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Kamal Hossain (Haidarpara, Ali Akbar Deil Union, Kutubdia)
The missing fisherman has been identified as Nasir Uddin, a resident of Mognama Union under Pekua Upazila.
Search Efforts Hampered by Rough Seas
Local fishing associations and emergency responders have mobilized to locate Nasir Uddin, though the ongoing adverse weather has significantly complicated their efforts.
Abul Kalam Azad, President of the Kutubdia Upazila Fisheries Federation, commented on the rescue dynamics:
“Of the seven rescued fishermen, three have already returned to Kutubdia. The other four have remained on the rescue vessels to assist in the search for their missing colleague. However, the hostile weather and highly turbulent sea are severely disrupting the rescue operation. Despite these challenges, local fishermen and rescue boats are continuing their search in the surrounding areas.”
Local law enforcement has also stepped in to manage the aftermath of the tragedy. Omar Farooq, Inspector (Investigation) of the Kutubdia Police Station, confirmed the casualties:
“We have recovered the bodies of four fishermen, and one remains missing following the trawler capsize. The necessary legal procedures regarding this incident are currently underway.”
As of late Monday night, search and rescue teams have reported no trace of Nasir Uddin, but operations remain active despite the treacherous offshore conditions.