Boat robberies hit Kishoreganj haor tourism

A series of armed boat robberies in the haor wetlands of Kishoreganj has triggered widespread concern among tourists and tour operators, prompting authorities to strengthen security across key waterways to restore confidence in one of Bangladesh’s most popular monsoon tourism destinations.

The recent incidents have left visitors, local businesses and transport operators worried, with many tourists reportedly cancelling planned trips to the vast wetland region during the peak rainy season.

According to police, joint patrols involving the district police, Naval Police and Tourist Police have been intensified following several robberies targeting passenger and tourist boats.

The latest incident occurred on 7 July when around 40 tourists travelling near Hasanpur Bridge, on the border of Mithamain and Karimganj upazilas, were allegedly held at gunpoint by a gang of boat robbers. The attackers reportedly assaulted the tourists before fleeing with mobile phones, cash, jewellery and other valuables.

On the same night, another passenger boat carrying the body of a 15-day-old infant was reportedly robbed near Noagaon Sluice Gate in Karimganj, while a third robbery took place the following evening in Itna upazila, where armed criminals looted cash, mobile phones and equipment from a passenger trawler.

The incidents have significantly affected tourism in the haor region, where thousands of domestic visitors travel every monsoon to enjoy the scenic waterways, floating villages and vast freshwater landscapes.

Several tourists said they had postponed or cancelled their trips after hearing about the robberies.
"After the robbery involving tourists, many of my friends decided not to visit the haor," said visitor Rakib Hasan. "If security is ensured, tourists will return."

Boat operators also reported a sharp decline in evening travel.

"We now receive fewer bookings after sunset because visitors are afraid," said Yusuf Ali, General Secretary of the Itna Trawler Owners’ Association. “Police escorts for the last passenger trawler have helped restore some confidence, but night-time passenger services remain suspended."

Local fishermen and fish traders also said the insecurity has disrupted economic activities, as many are reluctant to remain on the water after dark.

In response, law enforcement agencies have launched round-the-clock patrols on vulnerable routes, including Hasanpur Bridge, Kalirvita, Katakhali, Shimulbagh, Chilni Bridge and other identified hotspots across Itna, Mithamain and Austagram.

Police are stopping suspicious boats, checking identities, gathering intelligence and updating lists of suspected criminal groups operating in the wetlands.

Tourist Police Superintendent Mohammad Naimul Haque said visitors have been advised not to remain in the haor after 5:30pm, while emergency crossings for patients, pregnant women and funeral services will continue under police protection.

Kishoreganj Police Superintendent Mohammad Mizanur Rahman said a major robbery case had already been solved, with several suspects arrested and stolen goods recovered. He added that security operations would continue throughout the monsoon season.

Lawmakers from the region have also vowed tougher action against the criminal gangs. They said additional high-speed patrol boats and sustained operations would help abolish boat robberies and restore confidence among tourists, traders and local residents.

Stakeholders believe that if the enhanced patrols and intelligence-led operations continue, the haor’s tourism industry, alongside fisheries, transport and local businesses, will gradually recover during the remainder of the monsoon season.