Seven members of the forest robber group known as 'Chhoto Suman Bahini', including its leader, surrendered to the Coast Guard in the Nandabala canal area of the Sundarbans under Mongla upazila of Bagerhat. The surrender took place on the night of May 17, 2026, and was confirmed by Coast Guard media officer Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujan during a press briefing on May 21. The surrendered individuals were identified as Suman Hawlader, Robiul Mallik, Rafik Sheikh, Siddiq Hawlader, Golam Mallik, Ismail Khan, and Mahfuz Mallik.

According to the Coast Guard, three single-barrel guns, two pipe guns, 25 rounds of live cartridges, and three blank cartridges were seized from the group. The operation was part of ongoing security drives titled 'Operation Restore Peace in Sundarban' and 'Operation Mangrove Shield', aimed at ensuring safety in the forest region. Since February 12, 2026, these operations have recovered 26 firearms, various ammunition, and communication devices, while arresting 21 bandits and rescuing 20 fishermen and forest workers.

Coast Guard officials stated that intelligence and operational activities will continue until the Sundarbans are completely free of bandit groups.