Photo: BSS

KHULNA, July 14, 2026 (BSS): Twenty-seven members of the notorious Chhoto Jahangir pirate gang, including its prime leader Jahangir Sheikh, surrendered to the Bangladesh Coast Guard in the Sundarbans, laying down a large cache of arms and ammunition in a significant success under the government's anti-piracy campaign.

The gang members formally surrendered on Monday afternoon at Charputia Canal in the Sundarbans under Mongla upazila of Bagerhat district, Coast Guard West Zone Commander Captain Mohammad Mesbaul Islam told a press briefing in Khulna today.

The surrendered pirates handed over three foreign-made firearms, one eight-shooter, one four-shooter, five locally made single-barrel guns, 15 pipe guns, two Chinese-made pipe guns, 340 rounds of live ammunition and 55 rounds of blank cartridges.

Captain Mesbaul Islam said the Coast Guard has been conducting special operations, including "Operation Restore Peace in Sundarbans" and "Operation Mangrove Shield," to eradicate piracy and strengthen security in the forest and adjoining coastal areas.

He said the drives have so far resulted in the arrest of 45 forest pirates along with a large quantity of arms and ammunition. The operations also rescued 42 abducted fishermen and forest workers alive, who were later reunited with their families after receiving necessary treatment.

He also informed seven members of the Chhoto Suman gang and three members of the Boro Jahangir gang had earlier surrendered, while the surrender of 27 members of the Chhoto Jahangir gang marks another major achievement in the ongoing anti-piracy campaign.

Coast Guard Media Officer Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujan said legal procedures against the surrendered pirates are underway, while arrangements are being made for the custody of the recovered arms and the rehabilitation of those who laid down their weapons.