Joint forces launch special operation in Sitakunda’s Jungle Salimpur

A special joint operation is underway in the Jungle Salimpur of Sitakunda, Chattogram. The operation began at 6:00 am on Monday, involving nearly 4,000 personnel from the Army, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and police.

After Fajr prayers, the joint forces entered the forest through multiple entry points. The operation includes 550 army personnel, 1,800 police members, 330 Armed Police Battalion (APBn) personnel, 400 RAB personnel, 120 Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) members, 15 Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), three dog squads, and three reserve helicopters.

For the past two decades, Jungle Salimpur has been a haven for criminals. Previous attempts by authorities to conduct operations in 2017 and 2022 were unsuccessful due to various obstacles and the influence of local criminals. This time, based on intelligence reports, the joint forces are carrying out a coordinated operation to deliver a strict zero-tolerance message against terrorism, reflecting the highest level of state commitment.

Recently, during an operation in the area, one RAB officer was killed and three others were injured.

Md. Rasel, Additional Superintendent of Police (Media) of Chattogram District, said that around 4,000 personnel are participating in the operation. The law enforcement members have been divided into several teams to enter the forest through different access points. Checkposts have been set up along all entry and exit routes, while three dog squads and three reserve helicopters remain on standby.