COX’S BAZAR / RANGAMATI, March 27, (V7N) — Security agencies have stepped up coordinated actions against smuggling and narcotics trafficking across Bangladesh’s border and urban areas.

In Ukhia upazila, a RAB‑15 team seized about three tons of acid (3,000 liters) stored in 100 jerrycans during a raid on a rented shop in Zakaria Market, Palangkhali Union. The shop was rented by Akter Hossain (32), son of the late Abu Bakkar of Anjumanpara. Police later secured the evidence and sent samples for testing. Initial investigations suggest the chemicals were intended for smuggling to Myanmar’s Arakan Army (AA), potentially for narcotics and explosives production.

Local Union Parishad Chairman M Gafur Uddin Chowdhury was present during the raid. Authorities are probing the involvement of the market owner and others, with legal action underway at Ukhia Police Station.

Separately, the Bangladesh Coast Guard seized 390,000 yaba tablets worth Tk 195 million in two operations in Cox’s Bazar. A covered van intercepted at Baraitali near the Naf River concealed 330,000 pills in a hidden chamber, while a fishing boat near Golarchar, Shahparir Island carried 60,000 pills. Five smugglers were arrested.

The Coast Guard said such operations will continue to disrupt trafficking routes along the Naf River and Bay of Bengal.

Meanwhile, police in Rangamati city intensified their crackdown under a “zero tolerance” policy. On Thursday, Kotwali police arrested six alleged peddlers, including notorious dealer Sajal Das, recovering 400 yaba tablets and Tk 41,000 in cash during a raid in Kathaltoli Dhopapara. Two suspects escaped, but police said efforts to arrest them are ongoing.

Earlier, on March 24–25, police arrested 30 drug addicts and dealers in separate operations. Superintendent of Police Muhammad Abdur Rakib (PPM) said continuous raids are being conducted to curb rising drug abuse among youth.

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