The Bangladesh government will begin a nationwide coordinated crackdown on drugs, gambling and online betting after April 30, as reported by The Business Standard, with authorities pledging strict enforcement under a “zero tolerance” policy.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed announced the move in parliament on April 27 while responding to an urgent notice raised by Noakhali-2 lawmaker Zainul Abedin Farroque. The minister said the special drive would commence immediately after the current parliamentary session concludes on April 30, involving law enforcement agencies across the country.
Farroque alleged that illegal shisha lounges are operating inside residential buildings, restaurants and cafes in upscale areas of the capital, claiming that some dishonest officials have facilitated such activities. He warned that operators frequently relocate after raids, resuming operations elsewhere.
In response, the home minister said the government remains committed to its electoral promise to take a firm stance against drugs and gambling. He emphasized that no leniency would be shown and that the objective is to dismantle entire networks rather than address isolated incidents.
Ahmed also criticized the previous administration, alleging that illegal shisha bars and drug hubs expanded in neighborhoods such as Gulshan, Banani, Dhanmondi and Uttara between 2009 and 2024. He said regular operations are already underway by the Department of Narcotics Control and police, with significant amounts of shisha equipment seized in raids conducted on April 16 and 20.
Authorities have intensified intelligence surveillance to prevent operators from exploiting loopholes or shifting locations. The minister warned that any police personnel found supporting illegal activities would face immediate disciplinary action.
He added that district and upazila-level law enforcement agencies will participate in the upcoming nationwide operation, which aims to curb illegal gambling and drug-related activities across Bangladesh.
Recent raids in Gulshan and other Dhaka areas led to seizures of large quantities of shisha equipment
