Dhaka, March 10 -- During the erstwhile Awami League government's tenure, party leaders and their allied fishermen's associations held a firm grip over the leasing of water bodies in the Haor region.

However, after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina regime on Aug 5, the wetlands in Sunamganj have become hotspots for rampant illegal occupation and fish theft.

The situation has intensified beyond political influence -- entire villages are now openly taking control of others' leased water bodies and harvesting fish by force.

Despite intervention attempts by police, local administration, and even the army, authorities have failed to stop the practice.

Leaseholders stand helplessly by the water's edge, watching as fish worth millions are stolen...