CHATTOGRAM, Mar 9, (V7N) – A huge contingent of joint forces today began a combing operation against criminals and illegal arms at Jungle Salimpur slum, an inaccessible hilly area under Sitakunda upazila.

Led by the army, law enforcement agencies encircled the slum early in the morning and began searching every corner of the settlement. Several suspected criminals were arrested by 3:30 pm, officials said. DIG (Crime) of Chattogram Range Police Nazmul Hasan told journalists the drive would continue until the slum and adjacent areas are cleared of criminals and illegal arms, possibly extending into tomorrow.

Authorities said the operation follows a directive from the Ministry of Home, noting Jungle Salimpur has long been considered a den of criminals and a hoarding place for illegal arms. On January 19, 2026, RAB Deputy Assistant Director Abdul Motaleb Bhuiyan was killed during a raid in the slum when criminals opened fire, forcing law enforcers to retreat.

Additional Police Superintendent (Media) Md Russel said around 4,000 members of joint forces are participating in the largest ever drive at the slum, including 550 army personnel, 1,800 police, 330 APBN, 400 RAB, 120 BGB and 15 APC members. Three dog squads and three helicopters have also been deployed. Entry and exit points have been sealed, temporary check posts set up, and surveillance is being conducted with drones and aerial patrols.

DIG Nazmul Hasan said a comprehensive plan has been drawn up to dismantle criminal groups once and for all, with authorities considering a permanent joint forces outpost to restore peace. Jungle Salimpur, spread over 3,100 acres, has become an illegal residential zone housing more than 30,000 people. Officials said the area has been plagued by killings, drug and arms smuggling, extortion and gang rivalries, with criminals often using it as a safe haven after committing crimes elsewhere.

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