Chattogram: Noting that the Jungle Salimpur area in Chattogram has become a ‘safe haven’ for armed criminals, Director General of Rapid Action Battalion, AKM Shahidur Rahman, stated that the hideout of terrorists will be dismantled soon. ‘The terrorist den in Jungle Salimpur, which has become a hub of illegal activities, will be crushed and completely dismantled. This is our commitment,’ the RAB chief declared during a conversation with reporters after the namaz-e-janaza of slain RAB officer Motaleb Hossain at RAB-7 headquarters in Patenga.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Motaleb Hossain, a Deputy Assistant Director of RAB-7, was killed and three others were injured in a gun attack by armed criminals while on a drive to recover illegal arms in Jungle Salimpur in Sitakunda. Motaleb Hossain, a Nayeb Subedar in the Army on deputation at RAB, had embraced martyrdom in the line of duty. Those responsible for the killing would be brought to justice, and RAB will continue to monitor the case until the judicial process is completed.
Expressing sympathy for the bereaved family, the RAB DG stated that the loss suffered by Motaleb’s family is irreparable, and RAB will take responsibility for his family. Referring to Jungle Salimpur, the RAB DG emphasized that it was unacceptable for the area to become a safe place for criminals. ‘Those living there illegally and those involved with illegal weapons will soon face action. A drive will be launched there,’ he assured.
Since June-August 2024, the elite force has arrested many terrorists and recovered a large cache of weapons. Every operation carries its own risks, the RAB DG noted. Mentioning Monday’s incident as an exceptional situation, he explained that RAB members refrained from opening fire due to potential risks to civilians. The incident would be thoroughly investigated, and any shortcomings identified would be addressed to ensure more effective operations in the future.
The RAB chief added that the elite force had already identified several individuals involved in the attack and they would be arrested. RAB would continue to work with full force to maintain law and order in the country and ensure public safety by taking risks. CCTV footage circulating on social media shows RAB members arriving in two white microbuses, after which several people gathered through loudspeaker announcements and attacked the force. The video also shows the microbuses being vandalized.
A tense situation has been prevailing in the area following the incident. Additional police have been deployed to maintain the law and order situation.