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CHANDPUR, April 8, 2026 (BSS) - Police arrested five individuals for illegally extracting sand from the Meghna River using dredgers in Haimchar upazila, putting a river protection embankment at risk.

The incident occurred in the Gazinagar area under Ward No. 1 of Char Bhairabi union, where several acres of sandbar adjacent to the embankment were removed. The dredging left the area submerged under deep water, raising concerns about the stability of the flood protection structure.

Following the incident, the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) filed a case on Tuesday against seven individuals allegedly involved in the illegal operation.

Officer-in-Charge of Haimchar Police Station Mohammad Nazmul Hasan said five suspects have been detained in connection with the case, while efforts are underway to arrest the remaining two accused.

The arrested individuals were identified as Abdul Kader, 22; Md Ayub Ali, 20; Md Aman Ullah, 19; Md Morshalin, 19; and Md Shafiqul Islam, 23. The two fugitives are Dolowar Miji, 44, and Jewel, 35.

Haimchar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Amit Ray said authorities have already visited the site and ordered immediate repair of the damaged area with assistance from the BWDB.

"Strict legal action is being taken against those responsible," he added.