Law enforcement agencies have conducted another major operation in the notorious Gumtighar area adjacent to the Dayaganj railway crossing in the capital. During the special drive on Friday, 28 individuals were arrested on charges of involvement in various criminal activities and drug-related offenses. Police officials stated that the operation was part of an ongoing effort to ensure public safety and curb the influence of criminal elements in the locality.
Among those arrested are Shamsul Haque, Iqbal Hossain Jihad, Arafat Hossain Shamim, Abdullah Rahul, Mohammad Hossain, Saimur, Emon, Obhi, Rafin, Junaid Hossain, Said Hossain, Anwar Hossain, Imran Arafat, Maruf Hossain, Sahidur, Ujjal, Robin, Masud, Dulu, Farid Bepari, Joni, Kabir, Yusuf, Al Rabbi, Shuvo, Shawon, and Sentu Mia. Additionally, a minor involved in a conflict incident was taken into custody under legal protocols.
It is noteworthy that the Gumtighar area has become a focal point of controversy recently. On October 17, an incident involving an armed 'anti-drug drive' sparked widespread public outcry, eventually leading to the resignation of the then-State Minister for Liberation War Affairs. Since that incident, law enforcement presence in the area has been significantly intensified.
Prior to this, on October 19, the Department of Narcotics Control and the Special Response Battalion (SRB) conducted a joint raid in the same area, arresting 15 individuals. They were subsequently sentenced to three months of rigorous imprisonment and fined by a mobile court. On October 20, police conducted another follow-up operation, detaining three more suspects.
Local residents have long identified the Gumtighar area as a hub for drug trafficking and criminal activity. The recent series of raids has created a sense of urgency among the local criminal syndicates. Police administration has confirmed that these operations will continue until the area is cleared of criminal elements, and additional police forces have been deployed to maintain order and prevent any further escalation of instability.
