Coast Guard chief Ziaul Hoque reaffirms zero-tolerance against piracy, trafficking and crimes. Photo : BSS

KHULNA, June 18, 2026 (BSS) - Director General of the Bangladesh Coast Guard Rear Admiral Md Ziaul Hoque said the force is maintaining a strict zero-tolerance stance against piracy, drug trafficking and human trafficking in the Sundarbans to ensure security in the coastal region.

He made the remarks after inspecting the overall security situation in the Sundarbans this afternoon.

The Coast Guard chief said the force has been playing a vital role in safeguarding maritime resources, preventing smuggling and illegal intrusion, conducting rescue and disaster response operations, and contributing to national economic stability.

He noted that special operations titled "Operation Restore Peace in Sundarbans" and "Operation Mangrove Shield" are being conducted under government directives to maintain law and order in the world's largest mangrove forest.

Highlighting ongoing operations and intelligence activities, Rear Admiral Ziaul Haque said pirate groups operating in the Sundarbans have been largely contained. He added that several criminals, including notorious pirate leader Chhoto Suman and his associates, have recently surrendered to the Coast Guard.

He also said the establishment of Coast Guard Station Harbaria in the Joymonir Ghol area of Mongla has disrupted supply lines of food and weapons to criminal gangs, resulting in a significant improvement in the security situation in the Sundarbans.

Condemning a recent attack and vandalism at Coast Guard Station Harbaria, the Director General described the incident as "highly unfortunate and alarming."

He said an attack on a law enforcement installation is not only damage to government property but also an attempt to hinder security and crime prevention efforts in the Sundarbans.

The Coast Guard chief said efforts are underway to identify those involved in the incident and bring them to justice, adding that strict legal action will be taken against the perpetrators.

He urged residents of the Sundarbans and surrounding coastal areas not to be misled by rumours or false information, and to maintain confidence in law enforcement agencies while supporting efforts to protect peace and security.

He also called on the public to report any criminal activity threatening the security and biodiversity of the Sundarbans through the Coast Guard emergency helpline 16111.

Reaffirming the force's commitment, Rear Admiral Ziaul Hoque said the Bangladesh Coast Guard will continue its operations to protect the country's coastal and maritime sovereignty.