Jashore District Detective Branch (DB) police recovered a foreign pistol, two magazines, and five rounds of ammunition during a raid on the residence of former Chhatra League leader Kazi Touhidur Rahman Jewel in the Shekhhati area on Tuesday. The operation, led by DB Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Mamunur Rashid, targeted the suspect’s two-story home and adjacent structures following a tip-off. Authorities discovered the weapons concealed beneath the roof of the kitchen.

While the suspect managed to evade capture during the raid, police apprehended his father, Kazi Alamgir. Officials confirmed that Alamgir was subsequently presented before the court in connection with a separate case involving a cocktail explosion at the Jashore court premises.

Criminal Background

Jewel remains a primary target for law enforcement due to his extensive criminal record. He currently faces 14 active cases, including charges of murder, extortion, drug trafficking, and possession of explosives. Police have intensified technological surveillance to track his current location and ensure his swift arrest.

Following the recovery of the illegal firearms, officers filed a new case against Jewel under the Arms Act at the Kotwali Model Police Station. Authorities stated that the operation serves as a stern warning to local criminal syndicates, reaffirming their commitment to bringing listed offenders to justice.

A bus shelter in front of Rangamati Government College has been encroached upon to construct illegal shops, causing severe distress to students and commuters. The local welfare association reportedly rented out the newly built space for Tk 3 lakh in advance, effectively depriving the public of a designated waiting area.

The encroachment occurred after the new committee of the Greater Noakhali Welfare Association took charge. By shrinking the passenger waiting area to accommodate commercial structures, the association has created significant congestion, particularly during college dismissal hours when students struggle to find space to wait for transport.

Local residents and students alleged that the committee prioritized personal financial gain over public utility. Reports indicate that the shop was rented out for a total of Tk 3 lakh, with at least Tk 2 lakh already collected as an advance payment. This unauthorized occupation has sparked widespread criticism among the local community.

Administrative response

Sub-divisional engineer of the Rangamati Roads and Highways Department, Md. Rahat Alam, confirmed that the land falls under their jurisdiction. He stated, “We are investigating the reports of illegal construction and will take swift administrative action to address the matter.”

Concerned citizens have demanded an immediate eviction of the illegal structures to restore the bus shelter to its original state. Authorities are now under pressure to clear the site to prevent further public inconvenience and ensure the protection of government property.

Jhikargachha Upazila Awami League General Secretary Musa Mahmud was arrested by the Detective Branch (DB) of police on Friday night on charges of engaging in anti-state activities and planning sabotage. The arrest took place in the Krishnanagar Boatghat area of Jashore, following which he was taken to the DB office for intensive interrogation. This development marks a significant shift in the local political landscape, given his long-standing influence and proximity to the previous administration.

Authorities confirmed that the arrest followed a preliminary investigation that uncovered substantial evidence linking the leader to subversive activities. Police are currently scrutinizing case files and records to determine the full extent of his involvement in recent unrest. Officials stated that the interrogation aims to dismantle his network and identify other individuals potentially involved in the alleged sabotage plots.

Political background and influence

During the tenure of the previous government, Musa Mahmud was widely recognized as a close associate of former Jashore-1 Member of Parliament Sheikh Afil Uddin. He maintained a dominant presence in local politics for years, often facing allegations of power abuse and various irregularities. His detention signals a new phase in the ongoing legal proceedings against high-ranking local Awami League leaders.

DB Sub-Inspector Abdullah Al Azad said, “Preliminary investigations have provided strong evidence of his involvement in anti-state activities. We are currently questioning him to gather detailed information regarding his network and future sabotage plans.”

The arrest has triggered widespread discussion among local residents, as Mahmud held significant sway over Jhikargachha’s political affairs for an extended period. Law enforcement officials are now verifying the exact number of cases filed against him before proceeding with formal court appearances. The outcome of these interrogations is expected to have a lasting impact on the political stability and law and order situation in the Jashore region.