The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has expressed deep concern and called for a thorough and impartial investigation after Bangladesh Test cricketer Nayeem Hasan alleged that he was assaulted and harassed by police personnel in Chattogram.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the BCB strongly condemned what it described as "unacceptable and inappropriate conduct" towards the national cricketer.
"The Board strongly condemns the unacceptable and inappropriate conduct displayed towards the player and views the matter with the utmost seriousness. Such treatment of a national athlete is deeply regrettable and warrants immediate attention," the statement read.
The BCB said it expects a "thorough and impartial investigation" into the incident and urged the relevant authorities to take appropriate action against those found responsible.
The board also said it had remained in close contact with Nayeem Hasan and his family since learning of the matter to ensure their well-being and provide all necessary support. It added that it has been actively engaging with the concerned authorities and administration in Chattogram to facilitate a proper resolution of the issue.
Reiterating its commitment to protecting players, the BCB said it would continue to monitor developments closely while safeguarding the welfare, dignity and rights of all its cricketers.
The Cricketers Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) also condemned the incident and urged law enforcement authorities to take strict action following a proper investigation.
The reaction from the cricket authorities came after Nayeem alleged that he was physically assaulted by police officers while returning home in Chattogram late Friday night.
The 26-year-old off-spinner, who has played 14 Tests for Bangladesh, said he was stopped by police while travelling in a tuk-tuk around midnight after returning from his Dhaka Premier League commitments.
"I got down and told them to check my bag. But one of the police officers told me, 'Get into the vehicle, you are an accused person,'" Nayeem told reporters.
Nayeem alleged that police officers grabbed him by the throat, forced him into a vehicle and beat him with a pipe despite repeatedly identifying himself as a Bangladesh national team player.
"After bringing me to the station, the officer-in-charge told me, 'Keep your eyes down. Talk with your eyes down,'" he said.
Following the allegations, police confirmed that three officers had been withdrawn from duty pending further investigation into the matter.
