An Armed Police Battalion (APBn) member was allegedly lured to an isolated area and brutally assaulted by suspected drug traders in Rupganj, Narayanganj, for speaking out against drug activities.
The attackers allegedly beat Abul Kalam with sticks and locally made weapons, breaking his arms and legs and severing a tendon in one of his legs. He is now undergoing treatment at the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR) in Dhaka.
The attack took place around 11pm on Thursday in the North Masabo area of Tarabo Municipality.
Kalam had reportedly been opposing drug-related activities in the area for a long time and faced threats for helping law enforcers bring suspected drug traders to justice.
A few days ago, he helped police arrest two alleged drug traders, identified as Shahadat and Emdadul. Following the arrests, Shahadat’s younger brother, Shahjalal, allegedly threatened Kalam several times over the phone and in person.
According to the allegations, Shahjalal called Kalam around 11pm on Thursday, saying he needed to discuss something urgent. He then took him towards an isolated wetland near his home, where 10–15 people were waiting.
The group attacked Kalam as soon as he arrived, beating him repeatedly and allegedly breaking his limbs with sticks and locally made weapons. They also allegedly cut a tendon in his leg.
Hearing his cries, local residents rushed towards the scene, prompting the attackers to flee. They rescued Kalam and took him to a nearby private hospital. He was later referred to NITOR as his condition was serious.
Rupganj Police Station Officer-in-Charge AHM Salahuddin said he had heard about the incident but had not received a written complaint. Police would take legal action after investigating if a complaint was filed.