Dhaka, August 10 (V7N) — The Bangladesh Army has recovered more than 1,100 sharp-edged weapons from three shops and a warehouse in the capital’s New Market area, raising serious concerns over the commercial distribution of deadly items linked to rising street crimes.

The operation was conducted late Saturday night by army personnel. A press briefing was later held at the Army Camp of Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College, where army officials confirmed the seizure and provided details about the investigation.

Army officials stated that the recovery is part of an ongoing crackdown following increasing reports of violent activities by juvenile gangs and muggers in different areas of Dhaka. Many of the criminals recently arrested by law enforcement agencies were found to be in possession of samurai-style machetes, which have no apparent use in domestic settings.

“These weapons are not utility tools nor traditional household items. Some may claim they’re for decorative purposes, but we now know they are being used in killings, extortion, and robberies,” said an army spokesperson. “Media reports and interrogations of several detainees this month revealed that such weapons were being sold or rented out to criminals from specific locations.”

Following intelligence gathering over the past two days, military intelligence field operatives visited multiple stores in the New Market area and confirmed the presence of large quantities of locally manufactured bladed weapons, many resembling samurai swords and machetes.

The total count of recovered weapons stands at over 1,100, with counting still in progress. The weapons will be handed over to the Detective Branch (DB) of Dhaka Metropolitan Police for further investigation and legal proceedings.

Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of collusion between shop owners and criminal networks. An in-depth investigation has been initiated to determine whether these weapons were knowingly supplied to offenders.

The army has urged the business community to refrain from selling such items, which pose significant threats to public safety. They further warned that continued sales may lead to legal consequences.

In recent years, Dhaka has seen an alarming rise in youth violence, with teenagers forming organized gangs involved in assaults, muggings, and extortion. The easy availability of deadly weapons has been identified as a key factor exacerbating the situation.

The Bangladesh Army has reiterated its commitment to working closely with law enforcement and intelligence agencies to combat criminal networks and ensure public security across the country.

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