Sri Lankan Fishermen Rescued After 36 Days Adrift in Bay of Bengal

Two Sri Lankan fishermen have been rescued by their Bangladeshi counterparts after enduring a harrowing 36 days adrift in the Bay of Bengal. Sounda Hannadigipiyawating and his father, SH Chaminda, expressed profound gratitude for their rescue, describing how the Bangladeshi fishermen not only saved them but also provided food, shelter, and treated them like family.

The father and son set out from Sri Lanka on June 19 for a fishing trip. Their ordeal began when their boat's engine broke down on the return journey, causing them to drift helplessly into the open sea. During their time lost at sea, they encountered another vessel whose crew allegedly assaulted them and stole their boat's engine, battery, diesel, and other essential equipment, leaving them even more vulnerable.

After two more days without food, a different fishing boat offered them biscuits and rice before towing their vessel toward the Bangladeshi coast. On Thursday night, a group of fishermen from Moheshkhali found the stranded duo near Sonarchar and brought them ashore. The rescued fishermen indicated through gestures that they had survived partly by consuming raw fish during their prolonged ordeal.

Currently under police protection in Moheshkhali, the two Sri Lankan nationals are awaiting repatriation. Md Abdus Sultan, Officer-in-Charge of Moheshkhali Police Station, confirmed their nationality and stated that authorities are working closely with the Sri Lankan Embassy to arrange their return. Discussions are also underway with the Department of Social Services to ensure their care until they can go home.

The fishermen expressed a strong desire to return safely to their families and homeland, marking a hopeful end to their perilous journey.

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They not only rescued us but also fed us, sheltered us and treated us like members of their own family. We can never repay their kindness.