Winter Surge in Rural Robberies, Villagers Fearful

In the northern areas of the Adraihazar Upazila, the onset of winter has coincided with a sharp increase in rural robberies, creating widespread fear among local communities. Over the past week alone, five major incidents have been reported, as gangs break into homes to steal gold jewellery, cash, and other valuables. Villagers attempting to resist these attacks have often been subjected to physical assault, prompting many to organise their own night-time patrols.

The most recent incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday in Bhairabdi, Uchitpura Union. A gang of 20–25 intruders entered the residence of Rajon Roy, held the family at gunpoint, and stole 60,000 BDT in cash, six and a half tolas of gold jewellery, five tolas of silver, and several mobile phones. Later, the same gang raided the home of Dayal Roy. Neighbours attempting to intervene were attacked, resulting in injuries to multiple individuals, who were subsequently admitted to the Upazila Health Complex.

The night before, in Kadamtali, Khagkanda Union, a group of 10–12 masked robbers targeted local textile workers. They robbed cash and mobile phones while threatening the workers with large knives, quickly seizing all valuables before fleeing. The workers reported that the robbers acted with such intimidation that resistance was impossible.

Earlier, on 16 December in Khirdasadi, Mahmudpur Union, a gang of 15–20 intruders raided the home of businessman Abdur Rob Mia. They stole 10 tolas of gold jewellery, 720,000 BDT in cash, and other belongings. Both the businessman and his workers were injured, with one worker admitted to Dhaka Medical College Hospital.

A summary of the recent robberies is provided below:

Superintendent of Adraihazar Police, Mohammad Alauddin, confirmed that one notorious robber, Sujon Mia, has been arrested. He is implicated in multiple theft cases. Police have increased patrols and are intensifying efforts to apprehend the remaining criminals. Alauddin warned that winter provides opportunistic conditions for robbers, urging villagers to remain vigilant.

Meanwhile, residents continue night-time patrols and have demanded an increased police presence. Ensuring security during the winter months has become a pressing concern, relying heavily on the coordinated efforts of both local authorities and law enforcement.