Gazipur Police Cut Illegal Utilities in Haji Majar Slum

A joint operation has been launched in Haji Majar slum in Tongi West police station area of Gazipur Metropolitan City to dismantle illegal electricity, water and internet connections allegedly being used to facilitate drug-related activities.

The operation began on Wednesday morning, 22 July, with members of the Gazipur Metropolitan Police (GMP), the Dhaka Electric Supply Company (DESCO), relevant utility agencies and other law enforcement personnel taking part.

During the drive, authorities disconnected unauthorised electricity connections installed at various structures across the settlement. Illegal water lines and internet connections were also removed as part of the operation. The campaign was still under way when the report was prepared, with officials continuing to identify and disconnect further illegal connections in phases.

According to police sources, one of the main objectives of the operation is to disrupt the infrastructure that allegedly enables drug dealers to conduct their activities. Authorities believe that cutting off unauthorised utility connections could make it more difficult for criminal networks to operate from the area.

The operation comes amid continuing efforts by law enforcement agencies to tackle drug trafficking and related criminal activities in densely populated urban settlements. Such areas can present particular challenges for enforcement agencies because of their crowded environment and complex network of informal structures and utility connections. Police have repeatedly stressed the importance of cooperation between law enforcement bodies, utility providers and local communities in addressing these problems.

Speaking during the operation, Additional Police Commissioner (Crime and Operations) of the Gazipur Metropolitan Police, Mohammad Belayet Hossain, said the authorities would not allow Haji Majar slum to become a safe haven for drug traders or criminals.

He said illegal electricity, water and internet connections were allegedly being used to support drug-related operations and that the authorities were taking steps to remove those facilities.

“Every illegal connection will be disconnected, and such operations against drugs will continue,” he said, adding that no criminal would be spared.

Belayet Hossain also stressed that law enforcement operations alone would not be sufficient to eliminate drug-related crime. He called on local residents to remain vigilant and provide information to police about suspected drug dealers and criminal activities.

He said the police were firmly working to implement a zero-tolerance policy against drugs across Gazipur Metropolitan City, while urging residents to assist law enforcement agencies in their efforts.

The operation was attended by Mohammad Belayet Hossain, Additional Police Commissioner (Crime and Operations) of the Gazipur Metropolitan Police, DESCO Executive Engineer A K M Nazimul Islam and officials from the relevant agencies.

Police said further details would be provided after the operation is completed. The authorities are also expected to continue monitoring the area and take action against any illegal utility connections identified during subsequent inspections.