Members of the Bangladesh Coast Guard exchanged gunfire with the notorious pirate group known as the “Dulabhai Bahini” during a special operation deep inside the Sundarbans, with the drive still ongoing, a Coast Guard official said on Friday.

Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Suzan, Media Officer of the Bangladesh Coast Guard, said the operation was conducted on June 25 in a remote forest area near Bonpara under Koyra upazila of Khulna district.

According to the Coast Guard, the pirates, who were positioned on a boat, opened fire after detecting the presence of law enforcers. Coast Guard personnel returned fire in self-defence, targeting the pirates’ vessel.

During the operation, three suspected members of the pirate gang were rescued with gunshot injuries and sent to Koyra Upazila Health Complex for treatment, the official said.

The Coast Guard said efforts are continuing to recover illegal firearms and ammunition and arrest other members of the gang who managed to flee the scene.

A detailed briefing will be provided to the media once the operation is completed, the statement added.

The Coast Guard said the situation in the area remains fully under control and urged local residents not to be misled by rumours or panic, and to continue their normal activities.

Authorities also warned that members of the pirate group may attempt to take shelter in nearby localities or remote areas within the Sundarbans.

The Coast Guard called on the public to remain vigilant and provide any relevant information to law enforcement agencies.

It assured that the identities of informants would be kept confidential and that those providing useful information would be rewarded.