328 arrested nationwide in army-led joint drives

A total of 328 individuals have been arrested in joint drives conducted across the country by the Bangladesh Army in coordination with other law enforcement agencies between July 10 and July 17.

The arrestees include identified criminals, illegal arms holders, smugglers, juvenile gang members, extortionists, illegal occupiers, robbers, illegal sand lifters, drug dealers, and drug addicts, according to a press release issued by the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) yesterday.

During the operations, eight illegal firearms, 49 rounds of ammunition, 16 crude bombs, various types of narcotics, locally made weapons, stolen goods, mobile phones, and cash were recovered.

The ISPR said the arrests were part of the army's professional efforts to help maintain law and order amid the ongoing situation in the country.

The arrested individuals were handed over to the respective police stations after preliminary interrogation and completion of legal formalities, the press release said. To ensure public safety, the Bangladesh Army continues to carry out regular patrols and security operations across various areas, it added.

The army is also directly involved in maintaining stability in industrial zones and controlling labour unrest to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

These operations will continue as part of the army's efforts to keep the overall law and order situation stable, according to the press release.

All have been urged to report any suspicious activity to the nearest army camp.