Chattogram: Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed MP has declared a resolute campaign against criminal activities in Jungle Salimpur, stating that the area will no longer serve as a sanctuary for criminals, and no innocent resident will be evicted.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Home Minister emphasized the government's commitment to eradicating terrorism from Jungle Salimpur and neighboring areas through coordinated operations. He shared these plans during a press briefing in Jungle Salimpur, a region notorious for harboring criminals over the past decade and a half. The area, situated under Sitakunda upazila, is characterized by difficult terrain and numerous illegal settlements.
The minister referenced past incidents, including the death of a RAB officer and injuries to other law enforcement personnel during previous operations aimed at restoring administrative control over the area. He reaffirmed the government's intention to establish a prison in Jungle Salimpur and dispelled rumors of mass evictions, assuring that the government plans to rehabilitate residents under a comprehensive strategy.
Addressing the local populace, the Home Minister urged them not to be swayed by misinformation from vested interests. He highlighted severe criminal incidents in the region, such as extortion-related violence, and reiterated the government's serious approach to tackling these issues since assuming office.
Salahuddin Ahmed further noted that the area has been a safe haven for terrorists for 17 years and declared the government's uncompromising stance on eradicating drug-related crimes, violence, gambling, and extortion nationwide. He acknowledged the inadequacies of current gambling laws and announced ongoing efforts to draft new legislation and amend the Narcotics Control Act, aiming for swift case resolutions through a specialized tribunal.
The Home Minister also expressed concern over the rise in juvenile crime, citing legal loopholes that allow young offenders to evolve into organized criminals. He called for legal reforms and social campaigns to protect the youth from moral decline.
Accompanying the Home Minister during his visit were several key figures, including State Minister for Land and Chattogram Hill Tracts Affairs Barrister Mir Md Helaluddin, City Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain, and other senior officials. A subsequent meeting at the Ctg Circuit House Conference room involved discussions with district and divisional administration officials and law enforcement agencies to strategize future actions.