Nationwide joint operation yields 25 arrests, 53 firearms recovered

A total of 25 individuals were arrested and 53 firearms seized during the nationwide joint operation aimed at cracking down on illegal firearms. 

The drive, which began on September 4 and is being led by various law enforcement agencies, continues to recover unlicensed and looted weapons.

The coordinated effort involves Bangladesh Army personnel, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Coast Guard, Police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and Ansar, following a directive from Home Ministry on September 1. 

This operation was initiated after the ministry suspended civilian firearms licenses issued over the past 15 years, primarily during Awami League government’s tenure. The licenses were suspended on August 25 due to concerns over the number of unregistered or misused firearms.

According to police sources, the recovery includes a wide range of firearms, such as four revolvers, 18 pistols, two rifles, 11 shotguns, and more, including a rare AK-47 assault rifle and a Chinese-manufactured weapon. The operation is also targeting firearms looted from police stations and other security facilities in recent months.