Drug trafficking and abuse have reached alarming levels across Rangamati, a hilly border district of Bangladesh. The situation has spread from urban centers to remote villages, with reports suggesting that nearly every locality is affected. Local sources blame years of political patronage and weak administrative action for the worsening crisis. In response, district police have recently launched a special anti-narcotics operation under a zero-tolerance policy.

Investigations indicate that drug trade and use are active in all ten upazilas of Rangamati, with the town area identified as the most vulnerable. The networks reportedly expanded during the last two terms of the Awami League government and further intensified under the interim administration. Drugs are entering through largely unguarded borders with India and Myanmar, allegedly controlled by regional armed groups and local syndicates involving political figures.

Following public pressure and directives from the Minister for Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs, police have intensified operations, arresting over fifty suspects since Eid. Authorities say plans are underway to target the key ringleaders behind the narcotics trade.