Seven Detained with Weapons in Khulna Raid

Members of the Bangladesh Coast Guard have detained seven suspected members of the notorious Khobir Molla group during a pre-dawn operation in the Dighalia area of Khulna district. Authorities also recovered several weapons, ammunition, and an improvised explosive device during the raid, highlighting ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to curb criminal activity in the region.

The arrests were confirmed on Sunday afternoon by Coast Guard media officer Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujon. According to him, the operation was carried out in the early hours of Sunday following intelligence reports indicating the presence of armed individuals in the area.

Based on the confidential information received, personnel from Coast Guard Station Rupsha launched a targeted operation at around 5:00 a.m. in the Gazirhat locality under Dighalia Police Station. During the operation, officers conducted a search of the suspected individuals and their surroundings.

The search led to the recovery of several illegal items, including a single-barrel firearm, a locally manufactured single-shot weapon, three rounds of live ammunition, and an improvised explosive device commonly known as a crude bomb. Law enforcement officials stated that the weapons and explosives were seized immediately and secured as evidence.

The detained individuals are believed to be associated with the Khobir Molla group, which local sources claim has previously been linked to intimidation, illegal arms possession, and other criminal activities in surrounding areas. Authorities suspect that the group may have been attempting to establish a presence in the region or carry out unlawful operations.

The identities and details of the detainees are provided in the following table:

Officials said all seven suspects are residents of Kalia Upazila in Narail district, which borders parts of Khulna division. Investigators are examining whether the group had any wider network or links to organised criminal activities in neighbouring districts.

According to Coast Guard sources, the seized firearms, ammunition, and explosive device have been formally confiscated and will be handed over to the relevant authorities as part of the legal process. Preparations are also underway to file appropriate charges against the detainees under the country’s arms and explosives laws.

Local residents in Dighalia have occasionally raised concerns about criminal groups attempting to operate in remote or river-adjacent areas of the district. The geography of southern Bangladesh, with its numerous waterways and rural settlements, can sometimes provide opportunities for illegal activities if not closely monitored by law enforcement agencies.

The Bangladesh Coast Guard has increased patrols and intelligence-based operations in recent years in an effort to strengthen security in coastal and riverine regions. These operations often involve coordination with local police and other security forces to identify and disrupt criminal networks.

Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujon emphasised that maintaining law and order remains a top priority. He stated that the Coast Guard would continue to conduct similar intelligence-driven operations to prevent the spread of illegal weapons and criminal activities.

Authorities expressed confidence that continued vigilance and cooperation between security agencies and local communities would help maintain stability and ensure public safety across the region. Investigations into the detained suspects are currently ongoing.