Sundarbans, Aug 26 (V7N) - The Bangladesh Coast Guard arrested an armed associate of the notorious Karim-Sharif pirate gang during a special operation in the Sundarbans early Tuesday morning.

In a pre-dawn raid based on confidential intelligence, the Bangladesh Coast Guard conducted a targeted operation around 6:00 AM Tuesday near Tambulbunia Canal adjacent to the Shela River in the Sundarbans. The operation aimed to intercept members of the notorious Karim-Sharif gang, who were reportedly planning a robbery in the forest region.

According to Lieutenant Commander Syam-ul-Hoque, media officer of the Coast Guard (Dhaka), the gang members attempted to flee upon sensing the presence of law enforcement. During the ensuing chase, one associate of the gang was apprehended. He was found in possession of a single-barrel firearm, two live rounds, and six blank cartridges.

The arrested individual has been identified as 45-year-old Alamgir Hossain Sagar, a resident of Mongla. During preliminary interrogation, he admitted to being an active collaborator of the Karim-Sharif gang for an extended period. He confessed to supporting the group by supplying arms, ammunition, and logistics, as well as participating in criminal activities.

Legal proceedings are currently underway regarding the detained suspect and the seized weapons.

Lieutenant Commander Syam-ul-Hoque stated that the Coast Guard remains committed to eradicating piracy from the Sundarbans and will continue similar operations in the future to ensure the safety and security of the forest region and its surrounding communities.

END/AHS/SMA/