Large Arms Cache Seized from Local Islamist Leader

Sunamganj’s Jagannathpur Upazila witnessed a major security operation last Tuesday, when the Bangladesh Army uncovered a substantial cache of domestic and foreign weapons from the residence of local Islamist leader Pyar Ali in Shriramisi (Rasulpur) village, Mirpur Union. The raid, carried out at around 2 a.m., was conducted by a specialised team from the 17th Infantry Division, acting on intelligence inputs regarding illegal arms storage in the area.

According to official reports, the operation yielded an array of firearms, ammunition, and sharp weapons, which were later handed over to the Jagannathpur Police Station. The recovered arms include both domestic and imported firearms, highlighting concerns over illicit weapon circulation in the region.

Jagannathpur Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge, Shafiqul Islam, confirmed the seizure and stated, “A case under the Arms Act has been registered against Pyar Ali. He is currently absconding, and police teams are actively pursuing his arrest.”

Pyar Ali, son of Arshad Ali, serves as the regional president of the Shriramisi branch of Jamaat-e-Islami. His alleged involvement in illegal arms possession has caused alarm among local residents, prompting authorities to strengthen security measures in the union. Both the army and police are maintaining joint patrols and heightened vigilance to prevent any potential threats linked to the seized weapons.

The detailed inventory of the recovered arms is as follows:

Security officials emphasised that operations of this nature are part of ongoing efforts to curb the illegal arms trade and pre-empt terrorist activities in Sunamganj. Community leaders have expressed relief over the swift action but also concern over the accessibility of firearms in the area. Authorities reassured the public that heightened monitoring and rapid response measures will continue until Pyar Ali is brought to justice.

The seizure has sent a strong message regarding law enforcement vigilance and the army’s role in supporting local police to maintain law and order. Officials also warned that anyone found harbouring illegal weapons will face stringent legal consequences under national security laws.