49 suspected KNF members detained in Bandarban

Forty-nine more suspected members of banned terrorist outfit Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF) have been detained with firearms in Bandarban’s Ruma, the joint forces say.

They were picked up during the ongoing raids against the KNF in Ruma’s hills, said Bandarban police chief Saikat Shahin.

He said they have been taken under the custody of Bandarban Sadar police and will be produced before the court.

The crackdown came after armed Kuki-Chin militants attacked several banks in Ruma and Thanchi on April 2 and 3.

They looted money and firearms and abducted Sonali Bank Manager Nezam Uddin. The militants demanded Tk 15-20 lakh in ransom but RAB rescued him two days later.

Army chief General SM Shafiuddin Ahmed on Sunday (April 7) announced the arrest of some militant suspects and recovery of firearms.

Hours later, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) revealed that a special operation in Bandarban led to the arrest of Cheosim Bom, KNF’s chief coordinator.