Following a series of successful operations in the Sundarbans and coastal regions, Bangladesh Coast Guard has strengthened surveillance and patrol activities in coastal areas ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election.

During a media briefing on Tuesday afternoon, Zonal Commander of Coast Guard West Zone, Captain Mohammad Mesbaul Islam, said that since its establishment, the Bangladesh Coast Guard has been playing a vital role in maintaining law and order in coastal and riverine areas, preventing smuggling, protecting forest and fishery resources, and providing humanitarian assistance during natural disasters. He added that the Coast Guard has earned public trust through its efforts to eliminate pirates and forest criminals and ensure the safety of fishermen in the Sundarbans.

He said the West Zone is responsible for securing the southwestern coastal belt, river routes, Mongla Port, and other key installations, while continuing regular operational activities.

From January to December this year, Coast Guard operations in the Sundarbans led to the recovery of 38 firearms, 2 hand grenades, 74 local weapons, a large quantity of weapon-making equipment, and 448 rounds of ammunition. During these operations, 52 hostages were rescued and 49 pirates were arrested and handed over to police.

In anti-narcotics drives, the Coast Guard seized 5,674 yaba tablets, 13 kg of cannabis, and 1,256 bottles of foreign liquor and beer, arresting 51 drug traffickers.

Wildlife protection operations resulted in the seizure of 824 kg of deer meat, 600 deer traps, and the arrest of 29 poachers. In addition, large quantities of gewa and garan wood, two monitor lizards, 62 turtles, and 3,400 kg of polythene were confiscated.

To prevent illegal fishing, the Coast Guard seized illegal fishing nets worth approximately Tk 1,473 crore, shrimp fry worth Tk 120 crore, and 14,000 kg of jelly-injected shrimp.

As part of humanitarian efforts, the West Zone provided medical services and free medicine to more than 2,000 underprivileged people and children this year. Winter clothes were also distributed among over 500 cold-affected individuals.

Captain Islam further said that awareness programs are being conducted among students, fishermen, boatmen, and local residents on environmental protection, wildlife conservation, disaster response, and fire safety.

Ahead of the national election, intelligence gathering, patrol operations, and election-oriented training for Coast Guard personnel are ongoing. The Coast Guard West Zone remains fully prepared to ensure public safety and support a free, fair, and peaceful election.