Weapons and Explosives Seized in Sylhet Amid Heightened Security Ahead of Elections

PNN News Desk, Sylhet

The discovery of illegal weapons and explosives in the Sylhet division has raised concerns ahead of the upcoming national elections. As the election approaches, the administration and security forces remain vigilant about law and order. Regular high-level meetings are held to assess the situation, and surveillance and operations in the field have been intensified.

On Thursday, separate meetings were held with the Army Chief, sector commanders of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and district administrations to discuss potential election-related violence and security risks. Earlier, on Wednesday, the Home Affairs Advisor visited Sylhet to direct law enforcement agencies to adopt strict measures.

Increased BGB posts, activation of intelligence sources, and joint police-RAB operations have been intensified along urban and rural routes.

According to law enforcement statistics, 38 domestic and foreign firearms, including pistols, revolvers, and rifles, were seized in Sylhet in the past year. Additionally, 75 airguns, 104 rounds of various ammunition, over 2,000 cartridges and pallets, five magazines, and a large quantity of sharp weapons were confiscated. High-power explosives weighing nearly 10 kilograms, 54 detonators, a sound grenade, and several petrol bombs were also seized.

Special checkpoints have been established at borders, waterways, and inter-district routes to trace the origins and holders of these weapons and explosives. Barricades, dog squads, armored vehicle patrols, and exercises are ongoing at city entry points.

Of Sylhet division’s 2,641 polling stations, 362 have been identified as high-risk. Additional police, RAB, BGB, and Ansar personnel are planned to be deployed to these centers. Mobile teams, rapid response units, and strike forces are on standby. Visible patrols and special operations continue day and night.

Political leaders have also expressed concern. BNP’s top leader in Sylhet, Abdul Kaiyum Chowdhury, stated that the long-awaited election should not be questioned due to law and order issues. Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami leaders demanded prompt arrests of terrorists and effective seizure of weapons.

Sylhet Police Commissioner Abdul Kuddus Chowdhury said that modern technology, including body-worn cameras, drones, and dog squads, will be used to ensure peaceful voting. RAB and BGB stated that intelligence-based operations will continue at borders and within cities.

The administration claims that despite public concern over the quantity of weapons and explosives seized, all agencies are working in coordination to mitigate risks, and security forces are prepared to address any sabotage. Voters are urged to attend polling centers without fear.