Mongla, Jan 15, (V7N) – Forest banditry is resurging in the Sundarbans, with recent months witnessing a troubling increase in incidents such as kidnapping and extortion targeting local fishermen. Fishermen and others dependent on the Sundarbans are expressing deep concern and are calling for enhanced capacity and supervision from the forest department and law enforcement agencies.

Historically, the Sundarbans has been a hotspot for criminal activities, including kidnapping and robbery, creating an atmosphere of fear among fishermen, Bawalis, Mouwalis, and other forest dependents. Although the region was declared bandit-free in 2018 following the surrender of numerous bandits, reports indicate that criminal activities have resurfaced after several years of relative calm.In the current year, there has been a notable spike in incidents involving kidnapping, looting, and ransom demands. Four bandit groups, including those led by individuals known as Sharif, Mamu Bhagn, and Majnu, have emerged as significant threats. Alarmingly, some of the bandits who had surrendered in 2018 are reportedly re-engaging in criminal activities.

The resurgence of these crimes is attributed to a perceived reduction in law enforcement presence and security measures in the forest.Fishermen have reported multiple incidents where they were threatened and detained if they failed to pay extortion fees, making fishing in the Sundarbans increasingly perilous. In response to these concerns, Md. Anisur Rahman, Station Officer of the Chandpai Range of the Sundarbans East Forest Division, acknowledged the reports of banditry and assured that the department is taking action.

He stated that they are conducting joint operations with other law enforcement agencies to combat these incidents.From 2016 to 2018, a total of 324 bandits, including leaders of 32 groups, surrendered, leading to the government’s declaration of the Sundarbans as bandit-free. However, the recent rise in banditry has raised alarms among local communities, prompting calls for immediate government intervention to restore safety and security in the region.

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