A joint operation by the army and police in the riverine char areas of Araihazar upazila in Narayanganj recovered a large quantity of weapons, ammunition, explosives, drugs, and cash early Friday. The raid, conducted from 5:30 a.m. across Khaliar Char, Madhyar Char, and Kadmir Char under Kalapaharia Union, led to the arrest of five local residents. Among the recovered items were a foreign-made pistol looted from Araihazar Police Station, magazines, bullets, shotgun cartridges, eight cocktails, local weapons, an electric shock device, a mobile phone, and over 1 million taka in cash.

According to a press briefing held at Jahanara High School field, the operation involved 140 army personnel and 10 police officers under the 45 MLRS Regiment Artillery of the 9th Infantry Division, deployed in Araihazar since August 2025 under the “In Aid to Civil Power” framework. The area, surrounded by the Meghna River, is described as geographically sensitive and crime-prone. Intelligence reports had indicated the presence of stolen and illegal arms and drugs.

Lieutenant Colonel Zubair, commanding officer of the 45 MLRS Regiment, said the operation is expected to significantly reduce criminal activity and that similar actions will continue to ensure security ahead of the upcoming national election.