The Bangladesh Coast Guard has arrested 40 people while conducting an operation against illegal sand extraction in the Meghna River in Bhola. During the operation, six dredgers, one bulkhead and Tk 617,100 in cash were seized.
The operation was conducted from 1:00 am to 3:00 pm on Monday (September 7) in the Gazipur Char area near Kalupur Union under Bhola Sadar Police Station, following a tip-off about illegal sand extraction.
Coast Guard Media Officer Lieutenant Commander Sabbir Alam Sujon confirmed the information on Monday night.
According to the Coast Guard, a special operation was conducted by Coast Guard Base Bhola in the Meghna River. During the operation, personnel found several dredgers engaged in unauthorized sand extraction and detained 40 people allegedly involved in the activity.
Later, an executive magistrate in Bhola conducted a mobile court proceeding. Of the detainees, 38 sand extractors were sentenced to 15 days of imprisonment without labour. Two others were found to be minors and were released after obtaining written undertakings.
The seized Tk 617,100 was deposited into the government treasury, while legal proceedings concerning the six dredgers and one bulkhead are currently underway.
Illegal sand extraction from rivers can contribute to riverbank erosion, changes in river flow and damage to surrounding ecosystems. Authorities have been intensifying enforcement against unauthorized dredging in vulnerable river areas.
The Coast Guard said legal action against those involved in unauthorized sand extraction will continue as part of efforts to protect river resources and maintain public safety.
