KHULNA, May 22, 2026 (BSS) - The Bangladesh Coast Guard rescued 21 fishermen held hostage by pirate groups during two separate drives in the Sundarbans under "Operation Mangrove Shield".

Coast Guard Media Officer Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujon disclosed the information this morning.

He said the drives were conducted under the ongoing "Operation Restore Peace in Sundarbans" and "Operation Mangrove Shield" launched to curb piracy in the forest areas.

According to the Coast Guard, 10 fishermen abducted by the notorious Dayal Bahini from areas adjacent to Firingi Khal and Kunchir Khal were rescued during a drive conducted by Coast Guard Station Koyra early Thursday.

In another drive conducted by Coast Guard Base Mongla near Boro Dudhmukh Khal under Dakop Police Station, 11 more fishermen held hostage by the Boro Jahangir Bahini were rescued.

During the second operation, pirates opened fire targeting the Coast Guard team, prompting retaliatory action. The pirates later fled into the deep forest.

The Coast Guard also recovered one single-barrel gun, five rounds of live cartridges and one empty cartridge from the spot.

Legal action over the recovered arms and ammunition is underway, while the rescued fishermen are being handed over to their families, the official said.