Massive Narcotics Haul Unearthed in Cox’s Bazar Coastal Forest

In a major blow to regional drug trafficking syndicates, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB-15) has seized a colossal shipment of narcotics valued at approximately £1.5 million (24 crore BDT). The operation, which took place in the secluded coastal mangroves of North Nuniarchhara, Cox’s Bazar, resulted in the recovery of vast quantities of Yaba and Heroin buried beneath the sand.

The Operation: A Precision Strike

Acting on a sophisticated intelligence lead, a specialised unit of RAB-15 launched a pre-dawn raid on Monday, 26 January. Intelligence suggested that a significant consignment of contraband had been ferried across the maritime border and concealed within the parabon (mangrove forest) adjacent to the coast.

As the elite forces converged on the site, two suspects attempted to flee into the dense undergrowth. However, after a brief pursuit, both individuals were apprehended. Following a rigorous on-site interrogation, the suspects pointed officers toward a specific patch of forest floor where the earth appeared recently disturbed. Upon excavating the site, officers unearthed two large plastic sacks buried deep in the sand.

Inventory of the Seizure

The subsequent inspection of the sacks revealed a staggering quantity of “A-grade” narcotics. According to Lieutenant Colonel Niamul Halim Khan, Commanding Officer of RAB-15, the haul included 630,000 Yaba pills and 10 kilograms of Heroin.

The suspects have been identified as Md. Ismail (43), son of the late Hossain Ahmed from Chakaria, and Nazrul Islam (42), son of the late Saber Ahmed from Ukhia.

Dismantling the Supply Chain

During a press briefing held on Monday afternoon at the RAB-15 headquarters, Lt. Col. Khan noted that the shipment was likely intended for rapid distribution to Dhaka and other major metropolitan hubs. “The traffickers utilised the natural cover of the mangroves to temporarily warehouse the goods after they arrived via sea routes,” he explained.

The authorities believe this duo belongs to a much larger trans-border cartel. Consequently, investigators are now focusing on the financial trail and the “godfathers” behind the maritime logistics of the operation.

Legal Recourse

Formal charges are currently being prepared against the detainees at the Cox’s Bazar Sadar Police Station under the Narcotics Control Act. As the region continues to battle its reputation as a primary entry point for synthetic drugs, this seizure stands as one of the most significant successes for local law enforcement in recent months.