Editorial News 24

Marine Fish Catch Declining in Bangladesh, Increasing in India and Myanmar

### **Marine Fish Catch Declining in Bangladesh, Increasing in India and Myanmar** Over the past three years, Bangladesh has experienced a continuous decline in fish catch from the Bay of Bengal, particularly in marine hilsa, crabs, and shrimp. This reduction has negatively impacted the overall domestic fish supply. In contrast, neighboring countries India and Myanmar have increased their annual fish catch, strengthening their positions among the world’s top marine fishing nations. Fisheries experts and officials cite climate change—leading to rising sea temperatures, frequent cyclones, and overfishing—as the main reasons for the decline in Bangladesh. Additionally, the use of illegal nets and fishing in prohibited zones has worsened the situation. --- ### **Continuous Decline of Fish Catch in Bangladesh** According to the Department of Fisheries: * **FY 2021–22:** 706,000 tons * **FY 2022–23:** 679,000 tons * **FY 2023–24:** 628,000 tons This indicates a **7.5% decrease** in just one year. Officials report that the trend continued in FY 2024–25. Md. Abdullah Al Mamun, Assistant Director of the Marine Branch, stated: * 20 years ago, there were fewer than 100 commercial trawlers; now there are **265**. * Small fishing vessels have exceeded **29,000**, many using unauthorized modern equipment. * Fishing within 5–10 meters of the coast prevents the reproduction of fish larvae. --- ### **Opposite Trend in India and Myanmar** According to India’s Department of Fisheries: * **FY 2021–22:** 4,127,000 tons * **FY 2023–24:** 4,495,000 tons Similarly, Myanmar: * **FY 2020–21:** 3,295,000 tons * **FY 2023–24:** 3,414,000 tons Even amid internal conflict, Myanmar has seen an increase in marine fish catch. --- ### **Fish Species Most Affected in Bangladesh** According to the Department of Fisheries: * **Hilsa:** catch decreased by **6.5%** * **Shrimp:** catch decreased by **44%** * **Crabs:** catch decreased by **16%** --- ### **Most Affected Group—Marine Fishermen** According to Cox’s Bazar Fishing Boat Owners’ Association: * Nearly **5,000 wooden boats** operate in Cox’s Bazar * Fish catch has been low for **6–7 consecutive months** * Weekly fishing trips cost **BDT 200,000–300,000** * Repaying loans has become very difficult for many fishermen --- ### **Expert Recommendations** * **Control overfishing:** Since 2019, shrimp trawler licenses have not been renewed. * **Digital monitoring:** Satellite trackers have been installed on five trawlers experimentally; gradually, all trawlers are expected to be monitored digitally. * **Prevent Indian fishermen intrusion:** Fisheries advisor Farida Akhter emphasized stopping Indian fishermen from entering Bangladesh waters. --- ### **Global Context** According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO): * **2022 global marine fish catch:** 79.7 million tons * **50%** came from Asian countries * China alone caught **11.819 million tons (14.8%)** * India caught **3.597 million tons** * Bangladesh’s share was only **0.9%**

Over the past three years, Bangladesh has experienced a continuous decline in fish catch from the Bay of Bengal, particularly in marine hilsa, crabs, and shrimp. This reduction has negatively impacted the overall domestic fish supply. In contrast, neighboring countries India and Myanmar have increased their annual fish catch, strengthening their positions among the world’s […]

A catastrophic storm heading toward Gaza, hundreds of thousands may be displaced

### **A catastrophic storm heading toward Gaza, hundreds of thousands may be displaced** A massive storm is rapidly approaching the Gaza Strip, raising fears that hundreds of thousands of people may be displaced once again. Local authorities have issued urgent warnings about potential widespread flooding caused by the storm and heavy rainfall. According to a report published by Anadolu Agency on Thursday (13 November), severe storms and heavy rain are forecast for southern Gaza. After two years of relentless Israeli attacks, massive destruction, and an ongoing humanitarian crisis, this new disaster could further worsen the already dire situation. More than 900,000 displaced Palestinians are currently at high risk of flooding. Saeb Lakkon, spokesperson for the Khan Yunis municipality, said thousands of makeshift tents along the coast are likely to be submerged. Damaged drainage systems and overflowing rainwater ponds are posing additional threats to residents. The Palestinian Meteorological Department warned that flash floods may occur in low-lying areas and valleys on Friday and Saturday. Lakkon described the situation as “unprecedented and catastrophic.” Due to widespread destruction and collapsed infrastructure, more than 900,000 people are living in extreme uncertainty. Israeli bombardment has destroyed 85% of Gaza’s roads, water systems, and sewage networks. Around 15 million tonnes of debris remain scattered across the city, which local authorities are unable to clear. He further warned that fuel shortages may force sewage stations to shut down completely, potentially causing wastewater to overflow throughout entire neighborhoods. Despite the ceasefire, the municipality received only 16,000 liters of diesel until 10 October — enough to operate for just three days. With limited equipment, emergency teams are trying to build barriers and divert floodwater. Gaza officials accuse Israel of violating ceasefire terms daily, resulting in casualties and severely restricting the entry of food and medical supplies. The report also states that of Khan Yunis’s 2,200 drainage systems, 1,900 have been destroyed. A UN-supported emergency project is working to maintain the remaining drains, but the scale of the crisis is too large to manage. Lakkon urged the international community to send mobile pumps and emergency equipment immediately. “Without international assistance, removing debris or restoring essential services is impossible,” he said. “Immediate action is needed to save the two million displaced people living along Gaza’s flood-prone coastline.” On Thursday, UNRWA reported that more than 282,000 houses have been destroyed or damaged by Israeli attacks. As winter approaches, thousands of families have been forced to take shelter in tents. Earlier, Gaza’s Government Media Office reported that as of late September, 93% of all tents in the Gaza Strip had collapsed and were no longer habitable.

A massive storm is rapidly approaching the Gaza Strip, raising fears that hundreds of thousands of people may be displaced once again. Local authorities have issued urgent warnings about potential widespread flooding caused by the storm and heavy rainfall. According to a report published by Anadolu Agency on Thursday (13 November), severe storms and heavy […]

Mystery of 26-Piece Dismembered Body of Raw Material Trader Ashraful Haque: Main Accused Friend Jorezul Islam and His Lover Shamima Arrested

Mystery of 26-Piece Dismembered Body of Raw Material Trader Ashraful Haque: Main Accused Friend Jorezul Islam and His Lover Shamima Arrested Ashraful Haque, a raw material trader from Rangpur, was killed after arriving in Dhaka with a friend. On Thursday (13 November) evening, police recovered his dismembered body—cut into 26 pieces—from two blue plastic drums near the National Eidgah ground adjacent to the High Court. The body was later identified through fingerprint analysis. The Dhaka Metropolitan Detective Police (DB) arrested the prime suspect and Ashraful’s close friend, Jorezul Islam, from Daudkandi in Cumilla. According to DB, the murder was primarily driven by an extramarital affair. Later, RAB-3 arrested Jorezul’s lover, Shamima, who was also involved in the incident. Several important pieces of evidence were seized during the arrest. Meanwhile, Ashraful’s sister, Anjira Begum, filed a murder case at Shahbagh Police Station, naming Jorezul as the main accused. According to police and family members, Ashraful (42) was from Nayapara village under Gopalpur Union in Badarganj, Rangpur. He was involved in the import and supply of onions, garlic, green chilies, ginger, and other raw commodities. On Tuesday (11 November) night, he left for Dhaka with his friend Jorezul. The following night (12 November) until 9 PM, he remained in contact with his family. After that, he went missing. Police suspect that the body was dismembered and kept inside the drums several days prior to recovery. The incident has sparked widespread concern in social and business circles, while DB and RAB-3 have assured that the investigation is being expedited.

Ashraful Haque, a raw material trader from Rangpur, was killed after arriving in Dhaka with a friend. On Thursday (13 November) evening, police recovered his dismembered body—cut into 26 pieces—from two blue plastic drums near the National Eidgah ground adjacent to the High Court. The body was later identified through fingerprint analysis. The Dhaka Metropolitan […]

Main Suspect Arrested in Dhaka 26-Piece Murder Case

Main Suspect Arrested in Dhaka 26-Piece Murder Case Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DB) has arrested Jorezul Islam, the main suspect in the gruesome case of 26 dismembered body parts of Rangpur-based raw material trader Ashraful Haque, from Daudkandi, Comilla. The body parts were found in two drums near the gate of the National Eidgah field adjacent to the High Court. The information was confirmed on Friday (November 14) by Muhammad Talebur Rahman, Deputy Commissioner of DMP Media and Public Relations. Earlier, Ashraful’s sister Anjira Begum filed a murder case at Shahbagh Police Station. Ashraful’s friend Jorez Mia has been named as the accused, while several unidentified individuals are also mentioned as being involved in the crime. According to reports, on Thursday (November 13) evening, two plastic drums containing dismembered body parts were discovered on the pavement near the High Court. The victim’s identity was later confirmed through fingerprint analysis. The deceased, Ashraful Haque (35), was the son of Abdur Rashid from Noyapara village in Badarganj, Rangpur. He traded and supplied various raw materials including onions, garlic, raw chilies, and ginger across the country. He is survived by his wife, two children, and parents. Police sources said one of the drums contained rice, while the other held 26 dismembered body parts wrapped in black polythene. The body is believed to have been placed in the drums a few days after the murder. Locals stated that Ashraful and Jorezul had been childhood friends and business partners. Jorezul had moved to Malaysia several years ago, leaving Ashraful to run the business alone. Recently, Jorezul returned to Bangladesh planning to go to Japan and sought financial help from Ashraful. On the day of the murder, Ashraful’s father was hospitalized. Ashraful visited him with Jorezul and then left for Dhaka. The next day, Ashraful’s wife repeatedly tried to contact him, but he did not answer. A few hours later, his dismembered body was recovered from the drums near the National Eidgah. Family members later identified the body as Ashraful’s through photographs.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DB) has arrested Jorezul Islam, the main suspect in the gruesome case of 26 dismembered body parts of Rangpur-based raw material trader Ashraful Haque, from Daudkandi, Comilla. The body parts were found in two drums near the gate of the National Eidgah field adjacent to the High Court. The information was confirmed […]

Woman Assaulted in Dhanmondi Arrested in July Attempted Murder Case

### Woman Assaulted in Dhanmondi Arrested in July Attempted Murder Case A woman who was assaulted on Thursday at Dhanmondi 32 has been arrested by the police on Friday in connection with an attempted murder case filed last July. A video of the incident had circulated online, showing a young woman striking the middle-aged victim with a stick. Dhanmondi Police presented the woman, Salma Islam, before the Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Court. Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Partha Bhadra rejected her bail application and ordered her to be sent to jail. Salma Islam’s lawyer, Abul Hosen Patwary, said that the investigating officer requested her detention, and the court issued the order after hearing both sides. Salma Islam, 42, resides in Azimpur, Dhaka, and is a housewife. She was assaulted on Thursday at Dhanmondi 32. Investigating officer Anwar Hosen stated that she was attacked after shouting the “Joy Bangla” slogan, and some people handed her over to the police. Salma Islam has been arrested in connection with an attempted murder case filed on July 19 last year, following a shooting incident involving a university student in Dhanmondi. According to the investigating officer, during the student-public movement at that time, an armed attack involving rifles, rods, and sticks was carried out in front of Star Kabab, Dhaka, injuring the complainant, who was the university student. Initially, 37 people, including the General Secretary of the Awami League, were named in the case. The investigating officer stated that preliminary evidence indicates Salma Islam’s involvement in the incident. On the other hand, Salma Islam’s lawyer claimed that she only shouted the “Joy Bangla” slogan in Dhanmondi 32 and was assaulted by a mob. He said, “She has been made an accused in a case for a crime she did not commit. We demand justice.” Investigating officer Anwar Hosen further stated that she was arrested under instructions from senior officials, and according to several witnesses in the case, her involvement has been confirmed.

A woman who was assaulted on Thursday at Dhanmondi 32 has been arrested by the police on Friday in connection with an attempted murder case filed last July. A video of the incident had circulated online, showing a young woman striking the middle-aged victim with a stick. Dhanmondi Police presented the woman, Salma Islam, before […]

Criminal Activities of Miscreants via Secret Apps, Security Tightened in Dhaka

### Criminal Activities of Miscreants via Secret Apps, Security Tightened in Dhaka A banned fascist group has been carrying out criminal activities in Dhaka, including cocktail explosions in various locations and petrol bomb attacks at educational institutions. Allegedly, they are conducting their organizational operations secretly through various apps. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) reported that, despite a lockdown program on Thursday, security was tightened at important government and state installations in the capital. Additionally, extra police personnel were deployed across the 50 DMP police stations. The police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and the army are actively working to maintain security on the ground. The DB (Detective Branch) police said the miscreants are using the Telegram app to quickly organize sudden rallies or other criminal activities and then share videos of these events on social media. In the past 11 days, 17 cocktail explosion incidents occurred at 15 locations in the capital. Furthermore, petrol bombs were thrown at the girls’ branch of Mohammadpur Preparatory School, though no casualties were reported. As part of the enhanced security measures, sufficient police and law enforcement personnel have been deployed at key state installations, including the residences of principal advisors, the International Crimes Tribunal, the Supreme Court, the Secretariat, and major government offices. Security has also been strengthened in important areas such as Banani, Uttara, Badda, Paltan, and Dhanmondi. DB Police Chief Md. Shafiqul Islam stated that fascist groups issue quick instructions via apps indicating where to gather, and the members then conduct street rallies accordingly. However, the DB is monitoring and preventing such activities continuously. Police and BGB sources reported that 14 BGB platoons have been deployed in Dhaka and nearby districts, including 12 in Dhaka and two in surrounding districts. This deployment aims to maintain overall law and order and ensure public safety. DMP officials added that special security measures have been implemented to prevent sabotage during nighttime, and additional police personnel have been stationed in front of police stations to manage protests, demands, or other movement-related incidents.

A banned fascist group has been carrying out criminal activities in Dhaka, including cocktail explosions in various locations and petrol bomb attacks at educational institutions. Allegedly, they are conducting their organizational operations secretly through various apps. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) reported that, despite a lockdown program on Thursday, security was tightened at important government […]

Deadly Landslide in Indonesia: 2 Killed, 21 Missing

### **Deadly Landslide in Indonesia: 2 Killed, 21 Missing** A devastating landslide has occurred in the Majenang area of Cilacap Regency in Central Java, Indonesia. At least two people have died, and 21 others are reported missing. Several others have sustained injuries. According to a report by Bernama on Friday (14 November), the incident took place on Thursday evening. Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) stated that the landslide, caused by continuous heavy rain, struck homes in the villages of Sibeuning, Sibaduyut, and Tarakan around 8 PM local time. Spokesperson Abdul Muhari said that by 3 AM on Friday, rescue teams had recovered 23 people, three of whom sustained minor injuries. Preliminary reports indicate that 12 houses were damaged in the landslide. Muhari added that the unstable terrain in the area has made rescue operations challenging. However, the Cilacap Regency Disaster Management Agency and joint search and rescue teams are using heavy machinery to expedite recovery efforts. The agency has urged local residents and rescue workers to remain cautious, as light to moderate rainfall is forecast in Majenang from Friday to Sunday, increasing the risk of a second landslide.

A devastating landslide has occurred in the Majenang area of Cilacap Regency in Central Java, Indonesia. At least two people have died, and 21 others are reported missing. Several others have sustained injuries. According to a report by Bernama on Friday (14 November), the incident took place on Thursday evening. Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency […]

Bangladesh Wins First Test by an Innings

Bangladesh Wins First Test by an Innings In the first Test of the series, Bangladesh defeated visiting Ireland by an innings and 47 runs. Ireland, scoring 286 in their first innings, were bowled out for 254 in their second innings. Bangladesh had posted 587 runs for 8 wickets in their first innings. In the latter stages, Ireland’s lower order showed strong resistance. The last 254 runs of the innings came entirely from the lower order, with McBryne scoring a fifty, Ballbarney 38, and Neill 36 runs. McCarthy, the last batsman to fall, contributed 25 runs. Bangladesh’s two left-arm spinners, Hasan Murad and Taijul Islam, shared seven wickets—Hasan Murad took 4 and Taijul Islam 3. Nahid Rana claimed 2 wickets. Mahmudul Hasan was named Player of the Match. Earlier in the Sylhet Test, Bangladesh had taken a 301-run lead in their first innings. Ireland ended the third day at 86 for 5 wickets in response. In their second innings, Ireland came under pressure from the start. Nahid Rana dismissed Chad Carmichael. Paul Stirling played confidently but was run out for 43. Taijul Islam trapped Harry Tector LBW for 18. Cameron was caught by Sadman Islam off Hasan Murad’s bowling while attempting a drive. Lorcan Tucker (9) was also dismissed by the spinner. Initially, the umpire did not give the decision, but after a review, it was confirmed that the ball would have hit the leg stump, and the out decision was upheld. Ireland ended the third day at 85 for 5 wickets.

In the first Test of the series, Bangladesh defeated visiting Ireland by an innings and 47 runs. Ireland, scoring 286 in their first innings, were bowled out for 254 in their second innings. Bangladesh had posted 587 runs for 8 wickets in their first innings. In the latter stages, Ireland’s lower order showed strong resistance. […]

Ronaldo Faces Suspension for Multiple World Cup Matches

Ronaldo Faces Suspension for Multiple World Cup Matches Portugal will secure their spot in the 2026 World Cup if they win their final qualifying match. However, star player Cristiano Ronaldo faces the risk of missing multiple matches after receiving his first-ever international red card. In the match against Ireland in Dublin, which Portugal lost 2-0, Ronaldo was sent off for striking Dara O’Shea with his elbow. Initially shown a yellow card, the referee upgraded it to a red card after a VAR review. While this is Ronaldo’s first red card in 226 international appearances, he has received 13 red cards in club football. Due to the red card in the Ireland match, Ronaldo will automatically miss one game. However, he could face an additional three-match ban for violent conduct. Striking with an elbow or committing an “assault” typically carries a minimum three-match suspension. According to Article 14 of FIFA’s Disciplinary Code, violent conduct—including elbowing, punching, or kicking—results in a minimum three-match ban. With only one qualifying match remaining for Portugal, the remaining two-match suspension for Ronaldo will carry over to the 2026 World Cup. This suspension applies only to competitive matches.

Portugal will secure their spot in the 2026 World Cup if they win their final qualifying match. However, star player Cristiano Ronaldo faces the risk of missing multiple matches after receiving his first-ever international red card. In the match against Ireland in Dublin, which Portugal lost 2-0, Ronaldo was sent off for striking Dara O’Shea […]

Judges Warn of Nationwide Work Stoppage

Judges Warn of Nationwide Work Stoppage The Bangladesh Judicial Service Association (BJSA) has warned of a nationwide work stoppage starting Sunday (16 November) if their two demands, including the deployment of adequate security personnel, are not met within the next 48 hours. The announcement was made in a statement signed by BJSA President Md. Amirul Islam and General Secretary Muhammad Majharul Islam on Friday (14 November). The statement said strict action must be taken against the police officers involved in negligence over the security of judges during the Rajshahi incident, as well as those who unprofessionally presented the arrested suspect in front of the media. The association expressed deep sorrow over the brutal stabbing of the son of Rajshahi Metropolitan Sessions Judge Mohammad Abdur Rahman at his residence. His son, Tausif Rahman Sumon, was killed, and his wife, Tasmin Nahar, was seriously injured. BJSA prayed for the departed soul and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. The statement further said the entire judiciary is shocked and stunned by such a gruesome attack on a judge’s family. Despite repeated letters from the Supreme Court requesting security for all courts, tribunals, courtrooms, judges’ residences, and vehicles, the government has taken no visible measures. There is insufficient government-provided housing and transport for district-level judges. The situation is even more critical for judges serving in outpost courts, forcing them to live in unsecured rental housing and travel by rickshaw, van, or on foot. BJSA emphasized that while judges are always engaged in safeguarding the security of the state and citizens, the government has failed to ensure their own protection. The association warned that this tragic incident cannot be ignored and accountability must be ensured.

The Bangladesh Judicial Service Association (BJSA) has warned of a nationwide work stoppage starting Sunday (16 November) if their two demands, including the deployment of adequate security personnel, are not met within the next 48 hours. The announcement was made in a statement signed by BJSA President Md. Amirul Islam and General Secretary Muhammad Majharul […]

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