A special operation by joint forces was launched in Jungle Salimpur of Sitakunda on Wednesday afternoon amid concerns over renewed criminal activities in the area.
The operation began shortly after 5pm and was still underway around 7pm, Chattogram district police said.
Personnel from the police, Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) and Ansar Battalion are taking part in the operation.
According to law enforcement sources, the operation is aimed at identifying criminal activities, locating members of criminal groups and assessing the law-and-order situation in the area.
Necessary action will be taken based on information gathered during the drive, they said.
Mohammad Rusel, additional superintendent of police (DB) of Chattogram district, said details of the operation would be disclosed at a briefing later.
The drive comes amid renewed concerns over the activities of criminal groups in Jungle Salimpur.
Locals have alleged that several second- and third-tier criminals have become active in the area while alleged gang leaders Yasin, Mashiur and Rokon, locally described as “godfathers”, remain in hiding.
They also claimed that multiple gangs have recently emerged and are attempting to expand their influence in the area. People familiar with the situation estimate that at least 12 gangs are currently trying to establish control in different parts of Jungle Salimpur.
The alleged activities of the groups have raised concerns over a possible rise in crime and instability in the area.
Law enforcement sources said surveillance and operations in Jungle Salimpur may be intensified in the coming days to prevent criminal groups from expanding their activities.
Police have not yet disclosed whether any weapons or drugs were recovered or how many people were detained or arrested during Wednesday’s operation.
Mohammad Rusel said the district police would provide further details at a briefing after the operation concludes.
