KHULNA, Feb 1, 2026 (BSS) - As part of the intensified regular operations and patrols to strengthen security and curb crime ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election, the naval contingents recovered a large quantity of narcotics and illegal arms, seized cash, and arrested 11 people.

On Sunday, a Navy contingent from Khulna Sadar conducted a drive at the Coal Depot slum area under No. 6 Ghat in Khulna, arresting five drug traders, according to a press release issued by Bangladesh Navy today.

The arrestees were identified as Russel Howlader, Akbar Talukdar, Taslima Begum, Shahnaz Begum and Hosne Ara Begum.

The Navy recovered 1,365 yaba tablets, 1.75 kilograms of cannabis, two smart phones, one button phone, a digital weighing scale, and Taka 2, 37,365 in cash.

Meanwhile, separate operations conducted on Saturday by Navy contingents at Patharghata, Charfassion and Taltali led to the arrest of six more drug traders along with the seizure of over one kilogram of cannabis, yaba tablets, drug paraphernalia, two button phones and Taka 27,200.

In another operation, a Navy contingent deployed in Teknaf raided a hideout of a human trafficking gang in the Jumma Para hilly area near Noakhali Para, recovering one locally-made long-barrel gun, two LG pistols, live ammunition and cartridges.

The recovered arms and drugs, along with the arrested persons, were handed over to the respective police stations for legal action.

About 5,000 Navy personnel are currently deployed nationwide to ensure a free, fair and peaceful election, the press release added.