Army personnel have recovered a large stockpile of sharp weapons, including so-called 'samurai' chapatis, from several shops in the capital’s New Market area during raids.
The operation was carried out based on information extracted from recently arrested criminals, said Lieutenant Colonel Nazim Ahmed, Commander of the elite “Daring Tigers” unit, during a press briefing at the Suhrawardy Medical Camp of the Mohammadpur Army on Saturday night, reported UNB.
"More than 1,100 sharp weapons have been recovered from the ground floor of the market. Several boxes remain unopened, and the counting process is ongoing. The final number will be disclosed once the count is complete," he said.
The recovered weapons will be handed over to the Detective Branch (DB) of police for further examination and legal action.
Several shop owners and employees have been detained, though their names are being withheld for the sake of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities are also investigating whether there is any link between the arrested businessmen and criminal groups.
In response to a question, the army official said it is still unclear whether the seized weapons were locally produced or imported. "Further forensic examination will help determine their origin," he added.
Lt. Col. Nazim also urged traders to stop selling sharp weapons like 'samurai' chapatis. While some people collect them as decorative items, they are increasingly being used by criminal gangs, especially teenage groups, to carry out attacks. This dangerous trend must end, he said.
He appealed to the general public to support the effort to curb teen-gang violence. “The rise in teen-gang activity must be stopped, and InshaAllah, we will stop it. If anyone knows of illegal weapons trading in their area, they should immediately report it to the nearest army or police camp.”
The army commander reaffirmed the military’s commitment to ensuring internal security: “The Bangladesh Army remains fully prepared to maintain law and order. We are working tirelessly to ensure that no group can destabilise the country. We count on your continued support.”
