Official sources said a BDR team led by Capt Mahabub of Naikhangchhari zone challenged a number of people carrying heavy goods.

As they did not respond, the BDR fired at the men, who immediately ran away leaving their goods behind, said the sources.

The BDR seized the 9mm pistols, 5,000 bullets and 64 empty magazines from the spot.

The border guards also arrested a Bangladeshi indigenous man, said a BDR press release.

Official sources said the special operation started on August 19 in Naikhangchhari, Thanchi and Alikadam bordering areas.

The spokesman of Bandarban region BDR headquarters said, "About 2,000 members of Bangladesh Army, the BDR and police took part in the operation."

"The forces in 50 groups are continuing the combing operation to seize more arms and ammunition and arrest criminals," the spokesman added.