Large Cache of Weapons Seized from Teknaf Hills by BGB

In a significant security operation, the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has recovered a vast cache of weapons, ammunition, and explosive materials from the remote hills of Rangikhali in Hnila Union, Teknaf Upazila, Cox’s Bazar. The discovery was confirmed by Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Jasim Uddin, commanding officer of the 64th BGB Battalion, Ukhia, on Thursday night at 9 pm.

According to BGB sources, the operation targeted several armed criminal gangs that had long established temporary bases in the Rangikhali hills of Hnila Union and the forested areas near the Marine Drive in Baharchhara Union. These gangs have reportedly been involved in kidnapping, enforced disappearances, murder, and human trafficking, often threatening both local residents and tourists. They are also alleged to have participated in smuggling and narcotics activities along the border.

Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Jasim Uddin explained that the operation began on the evening of 17 December at 6:30 pm, executed in a three-tiered strategic plan by a team from the 64th Battalion. By 10:30 pm, suspicious activity was observed on the Rangikhali hills, prompting BGB personnel to encircle the area. When the criminal gang opened fire, the BGB returned fire in self-defence. The gang subsequently abandoned their temporary hideout and fled to nearby hills.

Following the operation, the BGB recovered a substantial arsenal from the abandoned hideout, including:

1 G3 rifle with components and magazines

1 single-shot gun and 1 LG shooter gun

1 M-A1 (MK-2 variant) and 1 single-barrel firearm

3 RGS hand grenades and 1 mortar shell

17 kg of gunpowder and bomb-making materials

Locally manufactured weapons and 302 rounds of live ammunition, along with spent casings

Preliminary investigations suggest that the recovered weapons had been used by the gang in numerous criminal activities over an extended period.

Lieutenant Colonel Jasim Uddin emphasised the BGB’s vigilance, stating:

"The 64th Battalion remains fully alert to safeguard the country's sovereignty and ensure border security. Intelligence-based, coordinated operations will continue in the future to prevent such criminal activities."

This seizure underscores the BGB’s commitment to maintaining law and order along the southern border and dismantling criminal networks that threaten both local communities and national security.

Operation Summary