Saviours or profiteers? Bangladesh fishermen rescue Rohingya, for a price

"Each and every time we are warning them," he said. "Yes, you can do that, but not in exchange of money."

He pointed to the deaths of women and children who, unable to swim, have died after their boats capsized near Bangladeshi shores.

Fishermen and local residents told Reuters that authorities have also broadcast messages in their villages by loudspeaker ordering them not to pick up Rohingyas. At least five boats caught bringing refugees in exchange for money have been set on fire on the beach by officials.

The boatmen Reuters spoke to said they were cautious about operating in bad weather and rejected allegations of coercion or detaining refugees.

Tens of thousands of people may still be waiting to cross the mouth of the Naf river, according to estimates by refugees, fishermen and rights groups.

"I would like to go back to bring these people, because Muslims are suffering," said Bangladeshi boat owner Moni Ullah, 38. "For me, it's hard to sit here and not go there, because I have seen so many people crying on the beach."