Youth arrested for threatening to kill Hannan in Hatia

In a tense development from Noakhali’s Hatiya district, police have arrested a young man for allegedly issuing a death threat against Abdul Hannan Masud, the senior joint chief coordinator of the National Citizens Party (NCP) and candidate for the Noakhali-6 (Hatiya) constituency.

The suspect, 27-year-old Israt Raihan Ami, was apprehended at Nandorod Market in Char Ishwar Union on Saturday night, 20 December, around 11:30 pm. Authorities noted that Ami is the son of former Char Ishwar Union chairman Abdul Halim Azad.

The arrest follows a formal complaint filed on 18 December at Hatiya Police Station, in which Masud alleged that Ami and others had made explicit threats to his life through Facebook. The complaint listed seven individuals and highlighted the potential for serious harm, prompting immediate investigation by local law enforcement.

According to the police report, Ami reportedly sent threatening messages via Facebook Messenger, warning of severe consequences if Masud pursued his political activities. The incident sparked outrage among local residents, who staged a demonstration outside the police station on Friday evening, demanding swift action and giving authorities a 24-hour ultimatum to arrest those responsible.

Masud’s uncle, Shamsul Tibriz, who serves as the chief coordinator of the NCP Hatiya Upazila Coordination Committee, urged authorities to take strict action against all parties involved, stressing that the matter should be handled within the bounds of the law. He added that ensuring the safety of political figures is paramount in maintaining public trust and democratic integrity.

Local police confirmed that investigations are ongoing and further arrests are possible. Community leaders have expressed concern over rising political tensions in the region, calling for calm and lawful resolution to prevent escalation.

This arrest underscores the growing role of social media in political discourse in Bangladesh and highlights the challenges faced by authorities in addressing online threats while ensuring freedom of expression. Law enforcement has reassured the public that measures will be taken to safeguard all political candidates leading up to upcoming elections.