An alleged pirate died and two others, including the head of “Dulabhai Gang,” were arrested during a special operation in the Sundarbans.
Coast Guard Media Officer Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujan announced the details at a press briefing at Mongla Base Camp on Saturday.
The operation was conducted under "Operation Mangrove Shield," launched in line with the government's directive to eliminate active pirate groups from the Sundarbans and ensure the safety of forest-dependent communities, fishermen, and coastal residents.
Acting on intelligence that members of “Dulabhai Gang” were hiding near Bonpara in Koyra upazila, Khulna, Coast Guard Base Mongla, Koyra Station, and Nalian Station jointly launched a two-day operation from 5:00pm on June 25.
Coast Guard personnel spotted two boats carrying the suspects and signalled them to stop. The suspects allegedly ignored the order and opened fire, prompting the Coast Guard to return fire in self-defence, reports BSS.
During the gunfight, one alleged pirate boat caught fire while the other sank. The Guard fired one blank cartridge and 216 rounds of live ammunition.
After the exchange, personnel found alleged gang leader Rabiul Islam, 50, and Shawkat Sardar, 55, with bullet injuries. Both were taken to Koyra Upazila Health Complex, where Shawkat was declared dead. Rabiul was later referred to Khulna Medical College and Hospital for advanced treatment.
The operation continued with the Bangladesh Police, leading to the arrest of alleged pirate Israfil Howlader, 26, near Mathbaria Police Outpost with assistance from local residents. He was treated for a bullet injury to his finger.
The Coast Guard recovered six single-barrel guns, 69 live cartridges, three blank cartridges, one locally made weapon, one mobile phone, and one wristwatch. The arrested suspects and recovered items were handed over to Koyra Police Station, while Shawkat's body was sent for autopsy.
