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Law enforcement agencies have adopted heightened security measures along the northern borders, particularly in Rajshahi, to address the growing threat of illegal weapons smuggling, particularly in view of the ensuing 12th parliamentary polls.
The police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have collaborated to implement specific precautions aimed at preventing the infiltration of illicit weapons.
While speaking to The Daily Messenger, Rajshahi Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Anisur Rahman has stated that they have adopted special measures to safeguard against the influx of illegal weapons into the country during the election season.
“A targeted and enhanced surveillance effort has been initiated in specific border areas situated within Chapainawabganj and Rajshahi districts, falling under the jurisdiction of the Rajshahi region.”
In response to an inquiry, DIG Anisur said the collaboration between the police, RAB, and BGB is integral to their comprehensive approach. Notably, they are closely monitoring not only general items but also paying specific attention to white clothes as part of their vigilant measures.
Recent information from various law enforcement sources reveals a significant success for the BGB. Last Wednesday, in Shibganj on the Chapainawabganj border, the BGB successfully seized a substantial consignment comprising 7 foreign pistols, 13 magazines, and 293 rounds of bullets. During this operation, a middle-aged woman was apprehended. It is noteworthy that arms dealers often utilise women to circumvent surveillance by law enforcement agencies. However, the BGB executed this operation with 100% confirmation based on confidential information, indicating their strategic and informed approach. Following this successful operation, the overall law and order forces in the region have intensified their efforts.
Additionally, prior to this incident, RAB Rajshahi had also made notable arrests related to foreign pistols, further emphasising the collective efforts of law enforcement agencies in curbing illegal activities in the region.
Authorities have noted a surge in the activity of arms smugglers along the borders in anticipation of the upcoming elections. These smugglers are employing various tactics to bring weapons into the country, leading to an increase in the number of apprehensions. Nevertheless, law enforcement agencies have proactively implemented special precautions to counter these efforts.
A substantial deployment of personnel, many of whom are dressed in white clothes, is engaged in monitoring and securing various border areas.
Across the country, operations to intercept and confiscate illegal weapons are in progress, with a particular focus on areas linked to the electoral process. This comprehensive campaign was initiated on December 9 and is set to continue until December 31.
Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Commissioner Biplab Vijay Talukder informed The Daily Messenger, stating, "To prevent the infiltration of illegal weapons into the city, we have intensified our efforts along the city's surrounding borders. Enhanced vigilance measures have been implemented in these areas, and we have received warnings that necessitate heightened security."
Notably, several other regions, including Satkhira, Kushtia, Jashore, Khulna, Cumilla, Sylhet, Moulvibazar, Habiganj, Sunamganj, Cox's Bazar, Khagrachari, and Bandarban, are identified as routes for arms smuggling. Syndicates have reportedly formed, comprising smugglers from neighboring countries, with a specific focus on arms trade at various border points within these districts. Arms carriers are active in these border areas, smuggling weapons from the other side and delivering them to arms dealers within the country. Subsequently, these traders sell the weapons to various criminals, including identified terrorists, dishonest political leaders, robbers, and criminals. While law enforcement agencies have managed to seize a couple of weapons, a significant portion of the smuggled arms has reportedly ended up in the hands of traders.
Information from BGB sources reveals a significant seizure of arms and ammunition from border areas during the period from January to November of the current year. The items confiscated include 38 pistols, 1 revolver, 49 various types of guns, 42 magazines, 761 rounds of ammunition, 6 mortar shells, and 212 kg of gunpowder. These operations have led to the accusation of 20 individuals in connection with 17 cases related to these incidents.
In addition to the BGB efforts, data from police headquarters sources indicate that more than 4,000 illegal weapons have been recovered over the course of the first 11 months of this year. Among these, 815 are firearms.
According to sources from the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), a total of 581 illegal weapons have been seized from various locations across the country during the period from January to November 30. In connection with these operations, 266 individuals have been arrested.
Joint Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), Biplab Kumar Sarkar, emphasised the importance of maintaining a secure environment leading up to the elections on January 7.
To ensure that there is no undue pressure on voters, candidates, or any disruptions to law and order, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police has initiated operations against illegal weapons holders in the jurisdiction of 50 police stations. The police are actively conducting searches in different areas on a daily basis, collecting relevant data. These sustained efforts aim to prevent the illegal import and use of arms.
Messenger/Disha
