Law enforcement agencies in Bangladesh have launched a joint operation in the Sundarbans to curb renewed pirate activity. Beginning on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, the Bangladesh Navy, Coast Guard, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and police initiated a coordinated campaign that will continue until the forest is declared free of bandit groups. The move follows reports that armed pirates have recently abducted fishermen and extorted ransom payments in rivers and canals of the world’s largest mangrove forest.

Authorities said surveillance has been intensified across key waterways including Dublar Char, Shibsha, Pashur, Aarpangashia, and Chandpai ranges. Fast patrol boats, speedboats, and commando teams have been deployed, while intelligence operations are underway to locate suspects. The Navy and Coast Guard confirmed strengthened river checkpoints and searches of suspicious vessels, and RAB and police have adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward armed groups.

Local officials noted that although the Sundarbans had previously been declared free of piracy after mass surrenders, some small groups have recently reemerged. Experts emphasized that sustained patrols, intelligence monitoring, and alternative livelihoods for forest-dependent communities are essential for lasting security.