Couple Held with Yaba Cache

A husband and wife have been arrested in Bagerhat following a targeted anti-narcotics operation that led to the recovery of a significant quantity of yaba tablets, cash, and mobile devices. The operation, conducted on Wednesday (4 March) Noon, took place in the Bade Karapara in the area under Bagerhat Sadar Upazila, where officers raided the couple’s residence based on prior intelligence.

The detainees have been identified as Syed Munir Hossain Khokon (41), son of Syed Nazrul Islam, and his wife Reshma Akter (34). Both are local residents, and investigators suspect that they were involved in storing and distributing illegal drugs within the in the area. Officials believe the rescue indicates the existence of a small but active narcotics network operating in the region.

According to Deputy Director Md Mizanur Rahman of the Department of Narcotics Control, the raid was carried out on the basis of credible and specific intelligence. Law enforcement agencies had received information suggesting that a large consignment of yaba tablets had been stockpiled at the residence. Acting promptly, a specialised team conducted a coordinated search operation.

During the search, officers recovered 2,000 yaba tablets, cash amounting to Tk 64,200, and two mobile phones. Investigators believe the seized mobile devices may contain crucial information regarding communication and transactions linked to the illicit drug trade. The presence of both narcotics and cash suggests that the suspects were actively engaged in drug distribution rather than mere possession.

Following the operation, Inspector SM Zafrul Alam filed a formal case under the Narcotics Control Act at Bagerhat Sadar Model Police Station. The accused have been taken into custody and are expected to be presented before the court for further legal proceedings.

Md Mizanur Rahman stated that such operations are part of an ongoing effort to curb the spread of narcotics across the district. He emphasised that law enforcement agencies remain committed to dismantling drug networks and preventing the circulation of illegal substances. “We had reliable intelligence about a significant yaba consignment stored at the residence. Based on that, we conducted a successful operation. Such drives will continue regularly to prevent the expansion of drug activities,” he said.

Yaba, a mixture of methamphetamine and caffeine, is widely recognised as a highly addictive stimulant with severe social and health consequences. In recent years, its growing availability has become a major concern across Bangladesh, contributing to increased criminal activity and social instability. Experts stress that alongside strict law enforcement, community awareness and preventive strategies are essential to address the root causes of drug abuse.

Below is a summary of the items recovered during the operation:

Local residents have welcomed the operation, expressing hope that continued vigilance and regular enforcement will help deter drug-related activities in the area.