Photo: BSS

BAGERHAT, May 4, 2026 (BSS) - The Bangladesh Coast Guard (BCG), the country's maritime law enforcement agency, as part of coordinated operations to curb piracy in the Sundarbans, has seized 43 firearms, detained 40 bandits and rescued 37 fishermen and two tourists over the past 18 months.

BCG Media Officer Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujan told BSS that regular patrols and special drives are being conducted under "Operation Mangrove Shield" and "Operation Restore Peace in Sundarbans".

He said joint teams comprising the Coast Guard, Bangladesh Navy, Police and RAB have been carrying out operations in different areas adjacent to the Sundarbans to ensure safety and maintain law and order.

Under the direct instructions of the Home Minister, the Coast Guard has adopted a "zero-tolerance" stance against forest-based criminal gangs, he added.

According to a BCG release, a significant cache of weapons and ammunition was recovered during the period, including 43 local and foreign firearms, 10 rounds of live ammunition, 186 rounds of cartridges, 299 rounds of blank cartridges and two hand grenades. Several pirate hideouts were also identified and subsequently destroyed.

During the drives, 37 fishermen, two tourists and one resort owner were rescued and handed over to their families.

The BCG said such coordinated operations will continue to ensure the safety of fishermen, tourists and local residents in the Sundarbans region.