Police launched the operation following a confessional statement made by Islamic outfit, Azizul Islam of village Sundarkhata in Panchagarh who was arrested recently.

While on remand, Azizul mentioned the name of Ibrahim Mia as his close associate.

However, police could not arrest him as yet, but recovered important documents and receipt books of illegal toll collection by searching his house, a source in Domar police told The Daily Star.

Local people alleged that Ibrahim had been engaged in collecting illegal toll in name of Islamic Social Development Fund for a long time. He also threatened them for their failure to comply with his order. He collected the money to carry out extremist activities, they added.

According to people, the activities of Islamic Jihad increased at Vogdaburi and other villages during the last six months.

Patwari Para Ahle Hadith Mosque committee members told newsmen, Ibrahim took leave for four days after Azizul's arrest. But he did not turn up even after 10 days of unauthorised absence.

He might have taken shelter in the mosque six months ago to carry out his outlawed activities, people apprehended.

Ibrahim hailed from Kaliganj village of Deviganj upazila in Panchagarh.