The Bangladesh Navy rescued 76 individuals, including 65 suspected victims of human trafficking, from a drifting wooden boat near Saint Martin’s Island on Wednesday night. The operation also led to the detention of 11 suspected traffickers.

The rescue was conducted by the naval ship BNS Khalid Bin Walid during a routine patrol approximately 81 nautical miles from the Saint Martin’s Lighthouse, according to a statement released by the Bangladesh Navy’s public relations wing. The incident began when the fishing vessel FV Crystal-1 spotted the wooden boat after its engine failed. When the fishing vessel’s crew approached to offer assistance, they grew suspicious of the vessel’s occupants and notified the Navy.

Upon arrival, naval personnel found the boat taking on water due to engine and pump malfunctions. The Navy pumped out the water and provided first aid, food, and humanitarian support to all people aboard. Preliminary questioning identified 11 individuals as alleged members of a human trafficking ring, who were subsequently detained. The other 65 individuals were treated as trafficking victims reportedly lured with promises of transportation to Malaysia.

Officials said most of the victims had been abducted by traffickers and held captive in remote locations in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar, before being brought to sea for the intended journey. The rescue highlights ongoing concerns about human trafficking routes originating from the region.

Authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the trafficking operation and the identities and motives of those detained. The Bangladesh Navy’s intervention demonstrated increased vigilance in patrolling maritime areas vulnerable to smuggling and trafficking activities.