In a bold pre-dawn operation, the Bangladesh Army, alongside police forces, stormed a suspected hideout in Mohammadpur’s Geneva Camp, targeting the notorious drug kingpin known as Bunia Sohel. The raid, which unfolded in the early hours of the morning, uncovered a staggering Tk 1.13 crore in cash, alongside explosives and narcotics, striking a blow against crime in the heart of Dhaka. For residents of Geneva Camp, long plagued by violence and fear, the operation brought a glimmer of hope, though many remain cautious, yearning for lasting peace.
The meticulously planned operation, led by the 23rd East Bengal Regiment of the Bangladesh Army, began around 3:00 AM, based on intelligence pinpointing Sohel’s presence in the camp. As the joint forces moved in, the area’s electricity was cut, plunging the narrow alleys into darkness. Suspected criminals, including Sohel, fled through rooftops and lanes, evading capture. Despite their escape, the raid yielded a significant haul: 13 crude bombs, 25 partially assembled explosives, 400 grams of gunpowder, two sharp weapons, 12 hockey sticks, 11 kilograms of cannabis, and 12 packets of heroin. These findings, now in the custody of Mohammadpur Police Station, sent a shiver through communities aware of the destructive potential of such items.
What Does the Geneva Camp Raid Mean for Local Safety?
For the residents of Geneva Camp, a densely packed enclave often overshadowed by crime, the operation stirred mixed emotions. Families, living in cramped 100-square-foot homes, have endured years of drug-related violence, with Sohel’s alleged network casting a long shadow. The discovery of such a large cache, especially explosives, heightened fears among parents who worry about their children’s safety amidst ongoing turf wars. Yet, the Bangladesh Army’s decisive action sparked gratitude, offering a sense of protection to those who feel trapped by the camp’s challenges.
Sohel, a figure linked to at least 38 cases in Dhaka, including charges of murder, explosives, and narcotics trafficking, has long been a symbol of the camp’s struggles. His earlier arrest this year, followed by a release on bail, had left locals disheartened, as violence flared again, including a recent killing attributed to his associates. The Bangladesh Army’s raid, though unable to apprehend Sohel, underscored a renewed commitment to dismantling criminal networks, resonating with citizens who long for safer streets and a future free from fear.
The operation also highlighted the broader context of Geneva Camp’s challenges, where poverty and overcrowding fuel crime. The seized items, from bombs to narcotics, reflect the scale of illegal activities that have turned the camp into a hotspot for violence. Community members, from rickshaw pullers to schoolteachers, expressed cautious optimism, hoping the Bangladesh Army’s efforts signal a turning point. For many, the sight of soldiers combing through the camp evoked memories of past struggles, yet also a belief that justice might prevail.
The raid’s impact extends beyond immediate seizures, raising questions about the camp’s future. Residents, weary of living under the threat of gang clashes, see the Bangladesh Army’s involvement as a beacon of hope, yet they remain wary of retaliatory violence. The operation’s success in recovering such a large sum and dangerous materials has bolstered confidence in law enforcement, particularly among families who dream of a peaceful community where children can thrive without fear.
The Bangladesh Army’s resolve in targeting Geneva Camp’s criminal elements sends a powerful message of hope and determination. For a community battered by crime, the raid represents a step towards reclaiming safety, urging residents to believe in a brighter, more secure future.
As the Bangladesh Army continues its efforts to restore order in Geneva Camp, the operation stands as a testament to their commitment to national security, offering residents a chance to rebuild their lives free from the grip of crime.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, August 15th, 2025
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