In a significant breakthrough, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB-11) has arrested Ataullah Abu Ammar Jununi, the chief of Myanmar's armed militant group Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), along with five of his associates. The arrests were made during a raid at Bhumi Palli Tower in Siddhirganj, Narayanganj, on Monday night (March 17). The group was produced before a Narayanganj court on Tuesday (March 18), where they were granted a total of 10 days of remand in two separate cases.

During the operation, RAB recovered Tk 21.39 lakh in cash, a sharp knife, and a steel chain with sharp teeth and handles from the suspects. Following the arrests, a case was filed under the Anti-Terrorism Act and the Illegal Entry Act at Siddhirganj Police Station by Sub-Inspector (unarmed) Md. Shahadat Hossain.

RAB spokesperson Lt. Col. Ashikur Rahman confirmed the arrests, identifying the detainees as Ataullah Abu Ammar Jununi (48), Mostaq Ahmed (66), Salimullah (27), Mosa. Asmaul Hosna, Hasan (15), and Moniruzzaman (24). Ataullah, the mastermind behind ARSA, has long been a notorious figure in Rohingya camps, orchestrating crimes such as murders, kidnappings, extortion, and drug trafficking to establish dominance. Despite numerous efforts by law enforcement agencies, he had evaded capture until now.

The court granted a 5-day remand in each of the two cases, totaling 10 days, following a hearing on the investigation officer's remand request. ARSA, a militant group based in Myanmar, has been a source of terror in Rohingya camps, with Ataullah allegedly directing operations from across the border.

This arrest marks a significant step in curbing the activities of ARSA, which has been a major destabilizing force in the region. Law enforcement agencies continue their efforts to dismantle the group's network and bring its members to justice.