A total of 562 people were arrested in a weeklong special anti-crime drive conducted by police across Dhaka District South, targeting dacoity, narcotics, snatching, theft and terrorism-related offences.

The operation was carried out from June 8 to June 15 under the leadership of Dhaka District Superintendent of Police (SP) Shamima Parveen. Members of the district Detective Branch (DB), Keraniganj Model Police Station, South Keraniganj Police Station, Nawabganj Police Station and Dohar Police Station took part in the drive.

Speaking at a press briefing held at Keraniganj Model Police Station on Tuesday, SP Shamima Parveen said police arrested 79 suspects, including 25 alleged robbers and 35 thieves. Among those detained were notorious robber leaders known as Briefcase Hannan and Soni, both accused in 102 cases.

During the operation, police recovered 82 grams of heroin, 3,578 yaba tablets, 56 litres of liquor and 25 kilograms of cannabis. Law enforcers also seized one microbus, two trucks, two CNG-run auto-rickshaws, three battery-operated auto-rickshaws, five kg of copper wire and 216 vehicle batteries.

Police also arrested 135 accused wanted in GR and CR warrant cases. In addition, 296 people were detained in connection with various crimes, while 146 alleged drug traders and 85 individuals under the Anti-Terrorism Act were arrested.

All 562 detainees were produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate’s Court in Dhaka.

SP Shamima Parveen said Prime Minister and Inspector General of Police (IGP) have instructed law enforcers to take action against criminals regardless of political affiliation.