In a decisive night-time operation in Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB-15) apprehended five individuals in possession of firearms, ammunition, and locally made sharp weapons. The raid took place in the Balukhali Pan Bazar area during the early hours of Monday, 3 March.
The arrests were confirmed on Wednesday, 4 March, by RAB-15 Cox’s Bazar’s media officer, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) A. M. Faruk. According to RAB sources, the operation was conducted based on a confidential tip-off indicating that several armed individuals were preparing to commit robbery at a rented residence owned by one Abdur Rahman.
Upon arrival, the RAB team was noticed by the suspects, prompting some to attempt an escape. While five suspects were successfully detained, two to three others managed to flee under the cover of darkness.
Details of Arrested Individuals
| Name | Age | Background/Criminal Record |
|---|---|---|
| Md. Alam | 33 | Previous firearms case registered at Teknaf Police Station in 2024 |
| Md. Rashid | 44 | Resident of local Rohingya camp; involved in robbery and narcotics trade |
| Syed Alam | 29 | Active in local criminal activities and robbery |
| Nur Kamal | 28 | Implicated in robbery and illicit drug networks |
| Zahed Ullah | 21 | Young offender involved in armed criminal activity |
Seized Items
Locally manufactured pistol and magazine
Four rounds of bullets and one spent casing
Single-barrel shotgun
Three rounds of rifle ammunition
Two folding steel knives
Three sharp rings with potential use as weapons
Four mobile phones and multiple SIM cards from different operators
ASP Faruk stated that during preliminary interrogation, the detainees admitted to being involved in drug trafficking and robbery across various parts of Cox’s Bazar. The operation further revealed that Md. Alam had an existing firearms case from 2024 at Teknaf Police Station.
The arrested individuals have been handed over to Ukhiya Police Station, and cases have been filed against them under relevant provisions of the Arms Act and Penal Code. RAB emphasised that the operation highlights their continued commitment to tackling armed crime, maintaining law and order, and ensuring the safety of residents in the Rohingya camps and surrounding areas.
This proactive raid not only disrupted a potential criminal act but also sent a clear message regarding RAB’s vigilance against illegal arms and organised crime networks operating in Cox’s Bazar. Authorities have indicated that further operations are likely to follow in response to ongoing intelligence.