Two Jubo Dal Leaders Shot by Gunmen in Cox’s Bazar

Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh: In a shocking late-night attack, two leaders of the Bangladesh Jubo Dal were shot by unidentified assailants in the Uttoran Residential Area of Cox’s Bazar city. The incident occurred on Tuesday, 9 December, at approximately 10:30 PM, leaving the political activists critically injured.

According to local sources, the victims are Saiful Islam (35) and Mohammad Faruk (34), both residents of the Larpara neighbourhood and active members of the Jubo Dal political organisation. Eyewitnesses reported that the gunmen arrived on a motorcycle wearing helmets, opened fire, and swiftly fled the scene, leaving the victims in a serious condition.

The injured were initially taken to Cox’s Bazar District Hospital, where doctors stabilised them before transferring both to Chittagong for advanced medical treatment.

“Saiful and Faruk are actively engaged in local politics,” said Azizul Haq Sohel, President of Cox’s Bazar Municipal Jubo Dal, who visited the hospital. “We demand that the perpetrators of this heinous attack be immediately identified and brought to justice.”

Local residents noted a potential motive linked to a longstanding family feud. In January 2023, Saiful’s brother Saidul and cousin Kaiser were killed during a dispute over a badminton game. Sources suggest that those responsible for the previous killings may have targeted Saiful today in retaliation.

The Cox’s Bazar Sadar Model Police Station confirmed the incident. Officer-in-Charge Somi Uddin stated:

“We have begun a thorough investigation to uncover the exact cause of this attack. Our priority is to identify the assailants swiftly and ensure they face legal action.”

The local administration has increased security patrols in the area following the shooting, and residents have been urged to remain vigilant. Political observers expressed concern that such targeted attacks could escalate tensions in the region, emphasising the need for rapid law enforcement action to prevent further violence.

Authorities continue to investigate the motives and identify the perpetrators, while the Jubo Dal community calls for justice and increased security to protect political activists in Cox’s Bazar.