A large-scale joint forces operation in the hilly area of Jungle Salimpur, Sitakunda, Chattogram, began at dawn on Monday but most top criminals escaped beforehand. According to Chattogram Range DIG Ahsan Habib Palash, notorious figures including Md. Yasin, Rokon Member, and Gafur fled through mountain routes before the raid. Despite strict secrecy, the hilly terrain and local networks reportedly helped the criminals receive advance warnings. The operation involved 3,183 law enforcement personnel, three helicopters, 15 APCs, 12 drones, and dog squads. Twelve suspects were detained, and no casualties occurred.

Field investigations revealed at least 11 early warning signals that alerted the criminals, including unusual police movements, social media activity, and helicopter patrols. Local residents said the area’s terrain and communication patterns made full secrecy difficult. Authorities recovered firearms, explosives, CCTV cameras, DVRs, and binoculars used for surveillance. DIG Palash and divisional commissioner Md. Ziauddin said the operation aimed to dismantle the network and restore public safety.

Two temporary police camps have been established in Jungle Salimpur and Alinagar to prevent the criminals from regrouping and to maintain long-term security in the area.