Allegations of an armed parade in front of the home of a rival councillor candidate have arisen against Sylhet Metropolitan Swechasebak League President Aftab Hossain Khan, who is also competing in the Sylhet City Corporation (SCC) election in councillor post.
The allegation was raised by Syed Md Abdullah, who is contesting against the Swechasebak League leader in the councillor post in ward no 7.
Syed Md Abdullah made a written complaint to the returning officer on Friday and informed the police as well.
The CCTV footage, which suggests the incident occurred on Tuesday, went viral on social media sites on Thursday, sparking unrest among the locals.
The footage showed Aftab Hossain Khan, also the current councillor of ward no 7, leading a group of men on motorcycles in an act of intimidation outside the residence of Syed Md Abdullah.
The group reportedly displayed weapons near the main gate of Abdullah's house.
Syed Md Abdullah, representing the “Latim (Pambaram)” symbol, claimed: "Aftab Hossain Khan, along with several men, arrived in front of my house and began displaying weapons. After reviewing the CCTV footage, I am certain of their identities. They carry out showdowns every day with hundreds of motorcycles, intimidating everyone."
Abdullah further alleged that the Swechasebak League, the volunteer wing of the Bangladesh Awami League, is trying to manipulate the election outcome by inciting fear among the public.
“I have filed a formal complaint with the returning officer, detailing the incident. I also informed the local police station and submitted copies of the complaint, along with the incriminating CCTV footage and newspaper clippings, to the Sylhet Metropolitan Police commissioner and relevant intelligence agencies,” he added.
In response, Aftab Hossain Khan, representing the “kite” symbol, has denied all allegations.
Despite repeated attempts, he did not answer calls for comments on the matter.
