Joint forces in a drive have detained at least 20�"25 people after an attack on a RAB camp by a gang of criminals at Jungle Salimpur in Sitakunda upazila of Chattogram.

“Around 20�"25 individuals were detained for questioning. During interrogation, if anyone is found involved in the attack legal action will be taken. Those not involved will be released on bond,” Lieutenant Colonel Hafizur Rahman, commander of RAB-7, told reporters at a media briefing on Monday, according to UNB reports.

He said no fatalities were reported during the exchange of gunfire between the joint force members and the armed group although some members of the forces sustained minor injuries.

The RAB commander said Yasin and members of his armed group comprising around 200�"250 people operating in Jungle Salimpur were involved in the attack.

He also claimed that the group vandalised nearly 70 percent of an under-construction joint forces camp in Alinagar which was close to completion.

He added that communication difficulties hampered the operation.

The situation is now under control, he said.

Replying to a question over the law and order situation, he said RAB-7 members arrested 366 accused in murder cases over the past 15 months.

He also said that all accused in rape cases in the region have been arrested by RAB or police.

“We are doing our best from our end to maintain overall law and order,” he added.

Earlier, on January 19, RAB Deputy Assistant Director Motaleb Hossain was killed in an attack by criminals in the remote jungle area of Salimpur.

For over two decades, Jungal Salimpur has served as a stronghold for criminals.

Previous attempts to clear the area in 2017 and 2022 failed due to local resistance and other obstacles.