Dhaka: Members of the joint forces, led by the Bangladesh Army, arrested 278 suspected criminals in a nationwide drive between Jan 16 and Jan 22, said the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Friday. The operations were conducted in different parts of the country including the capital by units under various infantry divisions and independent brigades in coordination with other law enforcement agencies.

According to United News of Bangladesh, those arrested include suspected terrorists, drug traders, drug users, robbery gang members, juvenile gang members, thieves, and smugglers. The ISPR disclosed that the joint forces also recovered 22 illegal firearms, 822 rounds of different types of ammunition, seven crude bombs, locally-made weapons, and narcotics during the drives.

The arrestees were handed over to the respective police stations for interrogation and legal proceedings. The ISPR further mentioned that it is continuing regular patrols and security operations in different areas to ensure public safety.

Additionally, troops are performing duties in industrial areas to help keep labour unrest under control. The security efforts will continue to help maintain the overall law and order situation, urging people to inform the nearest Army camp if they notice any suspicious or unusual activities.