Police arrested Muhammad Shahjahan Omar (Bir Uttam) when he went to file a case after he was attacked, and his car was vandalized in Rajapur upazila, Jhalakathi, on Thursday morning.
The arrest followed a protest by the Rajapur BNP on Wednesday evening, during which a group of protesters separated from the rally and allegedly attacked Omar's residence in the upazila, causing damage to the property.
Shahjahan Omar, a former BNP vice chairman, was elected as an MP with the Awami League’s nomination in the 12th general election.
News of his planned visit to Rajapur on Thursday prompted the aforementioned protest by a large number of BNP leaders and activists in the upazila the previous evening.
Allegedly, a group split off from the rally and attacked his home, hurling bricks and stones that shattered the windows.
The following morning, as Omar was attempting to enter Rajapur, assailants attacked his car in the Uttar Pingri area, after it had crossed the Baroibari border of the upazila.
His car was vandalized, and he sustained injuries. Omar later took shelter at his home in Sangor village, travelling through rural backroads.
Around 10:30am, Omar went to Rajapur police station to file a case regarding the vandalism.
However, BNP leaders and activists surrounded the station, blocking him from leaving.
Subsequently, the police arrested him in connection with a case filed at Kathalia police station.
Additional Superintendent of Police Muhitul Islam confirmed Omar’s arrest, saying further legal action is being processed.
