In a decisive operation in the Sayedabad area of the capital, the Bangladesh Army’s 46th Independent Infantry Brigade has recovered a substantial cache of narcotics, both domestic and foreign firearms, ammunition, Molotov cocktails, and cash. Six individuals, including a woman, were apprehended during the operation, which authorities describe as a significant step towards strengthening both local and national security.
The raid took place early on Monday, 26 January, at approximately 4:40 a.m., based on confidential intelligence. The operation focused on the vicinity of the Sayedabad bus terminal and adjacent railway lines. Prior to the raid, the army implemented extensive surveillance and planning to ensure the safety of civilians in the area.
The primary target of the operation was the notorious drug trafficker and criminal, known locally as Auto Sojal, along with his associates. While Auto Sojal managed to evade capture during the raid, his accomplices Raju, Faruk, Zahid, Sojib, and Janis, along with other family members, were detained. The army has confirmed that operations to apprehend Auto Sojal are ongoing.
During the search, the following items were seized:
| Item | Quantity / Details |
|---|---|
| Foreign automatic pistol (7.65 mm) | 2 |
| Rounds of ammunition | 8 |
| Yaba tablets | 5,108 |
| Heroin | 270 packets |
| Domestic sharp weapons | 13 |
| Cash | BDT 826,430 |
| Molotov cocktails and equipment | 3 |
| Mobile phones | 20 |
| Foreign alcohol | 2 bottles |
Preliminary investigations indicate that Auto Sojal led an organised network involved in drug trafficking across Sayedabad and Jatrabari for an extended period. The group allegedly used firearms to carry out criminal activities and supplied narcotics illegally across the city. Residents had long expressed concern over the gang’s operations.
The army emphasised that the operation was conducted with full professionalism and vigilance, and no untoward incidents occurred. The detainees and recovered materials are being formally handed over to the relevant police station.
The Bangladesh Army reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order, curbing narcotics and terrorism, and ensuring citizens’ safety. Future operations will continue to be timely, coordinated, and effective, while also promoting public awareness about crime prevention.