Bangladesh intercepts Malaysia-bound boat carrying 119 Rohingya

Banglesh coast guards intercepted a wooden boat carrying 119 Rohingya refugees bound for Malaysia as it was about to sink, officials said Thursday, latest in a spate of trafficking incidents this year.

Nearly one million Rohingya live in squalid camps near Banglesh's border with Myanmar, many fleeing neighbouring country after a brutal military crackdown began in 2017.

With few opportunities for jobs and education in camps, thousands have attempted to reach or countries like Malaysia and Thailand.

vessel was found in Bay of Bengal, just off coast of Banglesh's sourn Saint Martin's island, after a tip-off by fishermen, coast guard spokesman Saiful Islam told AFP.

"We found that boat was taking water due to engine failure," Islam said. "It was about to sink. H we t reached re in time, it would have sunk." 

Islam said 119 people on board, including 58 women and 14 children, were heing for Malaysia.

It was highest number of Rohingya found in a vessel at sea this year, he ded.

So far this year, Banglesh's law enforcement ncies have picked up over 500 Rohingya from coastal vills and boats as y waited to board boats bound for Malaysia.

At least seven suspected human traffickers have been shot de so far in 2019 in alleged gunfights with police.

Trafficking often increases after monsoon, when calm vember seas allow small fishing trawlers to travel long distances.

RE | International Court Judges Authorise Rohingya Investigation

RE | Rohit Sharma Helps Banglesh Super-fan Get An All-access Pass Ahe Of Test Series