Dhaka, Bangladesh – In a significant blow to the country’s criminal underworld, the Bangladesh Army and intelligence agencies have arrested Subrata Bain (aka Fateh Ali) and Molla Masud (aka Abu Rasel Masud), two of the nation’s top 23 most-wanted criminals, in a coordinated raid in Kushtia. Their arrests, followed by the capture of their associates Arafat (Shooter Arafat) and Sharif in Hatirjheel, mark a major victory against organised crime.
“These individuals were involved in killings, extortion, and acts of sabotage nationwide,” said Lt Col Sami Ud Dowla Chowdhury of the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR). The arrests were made without confrontation after extensive surveillance, he added.
Authorities recovered five foreign pistols, 10 magazines, 53 rounds of ammunition, and a satellite phone during the operation. The raid involved units from the Army Headquarters, the 55 Infantry Division, 14 Independent Engineer Brigade, 71 Mechanised Brigade, and the National Security Intelligence (NSI).
In a separate operation in Mohammadpur, the army apprehended Farid Ahmed Babu (alias Excel Babu), a high-profile criminal wanted in over 15 cases including murder, extortion, and land grabbing. He is believed to have led several juvenile gangs and has links to the notorious shooter Anwar (alias Kobzikata Anwar).
Subrata Bain, born in 1967 in Dhaka, has a criminal legacy dating back to the 1990s. Despite multiple arrests and a life sentence for murder, he repeatedly returned to crime after securing bail. His name recently resurfaced in connection with the killing of Jubo Dal leader Arif Sardar in Hatirjheel.
He is also accused of smuggling arms from India and leading the notorious “Seven Star” gang alongside Tokai Sagor. With deep political connections and a violent track record, Subrata’s influence spanned Moghbazar, Ramna, Karwan Bazar, and beyond. A 2001 Interpol Red Notice against him remains active.
After years abroad, including stints in Kolkata and Nepal, Subrata reportedly returned to Bangladesh last year. His reappearance was followed by renewed criminal activity, leading to his final arrest in Kushtia.
Urging public vigilance, Lt Col Sami Ud Dowla reiterated the Bangladesh Army’s commitment to national security. “Under Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, we stand fully prepared to protect the people and dismantle criminal networks,” he said.
