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In a significant development aimed at restoring peace in the Sundarbans, the leader of the notorious Chhoto Jahangir gang, Jahangir Sheikh, along with 26 of his associates, surrendered to the Bangladesh Coast Guard on Monday. The surrender ceremony took place near the Charputia canal under Mongla Police Station in Bagerhat, marking a major success for the ongoing security operations in the region.

During the surrender, the gang members handed over a substantial arsenal of weapons. This included three foreign-made guns, an eight-shooter, a four-shooter, five locally made single-barrel guns, 15 locally made pipe guns, two Chinese pipe guns, and a large quantity of live ammunition and spent cartridges. The Coast Guard stated that these weapons would be processed according to law, while rehabilitation measures are being prepared for those who laid down their arms.

The Coast Guard has accused the Chhoto Jahangir gang of long-standing involvement in criminal activities within the Sundarbans, including robberies and the abduction of fishermen and 'bawalis' (traditional honey collectors) for ransom. Under operations like "Operation Restore Peace in Sundarban" and "Operation Mangrove Shield," the Coast Guard has previously arrested 45 alleged forest robbers and rescued 42 hostages. Authorities are urging the remaining criminal elements to surrender, warning that continued illegal activities will be met with strict legal action.