Kurigram Police Arrest Five Linked to Hizb ut-Tahrir

In a significant security operation, police in Kurigram have detained five alleged members of the banned organisation Hizb ut-Tahrir in connection with the distribution and display of provocative posters across several parts of the town. The arrests underscore the authorities’ renewed vigilance against extremist propaganda and attempts to revive outlawed activities through covert campaigns.

According to police sources, the incident unfolded on Wednesday, 31 December, after reports emerged that posters bearing the insignia and messages of Hizb ut-Tahrir had appeared in prominent public locations, including College Mor and other busy intersections of Kurigram town. Upon receiving the information, both the local police station and the Detective Branch (DB) launched coordinated operations across the town to identify those responsible.

Later in the afternoon, DB officers intercepted a Kurigram–Rangpur-bound minibus near the Khalilganj Bazar area. Following a targeted search, five young men travelling on the vehicle were taken into custody on suspicion of involvement in the poster campaign. Law enforcement officials believe the group was attempting to leave the town shortly after carrying out the activity.

The detainees have been identified as Jaber Al Rafian (30), Sakibul Hasan (24), Shamim Hossain (25), Fahmid Hasan (34), and Mahmudur Rahman (25). Police stated that the individuals hail from different districts of the country, suggesting a coordinated effort that extended beyond local boundaries.

Notably, the detainees are reportedly students of various well-known universities in Bangladesh, a detail that has raised concerns among authorities about the targeting of educated youth by banned extremist organisations. Police sources indicated that the suspects are believed to have been involved in disseminating ideological materials aimed at attracting support and creating unrest.

The Officer-in-Charge of Kurigram Sadar Police Station, Jahangir Alam, confirmed that the detainees are currently being interrogated. He said their statements and digital footprints are being examined thoroughly to verify their level of involvement and any wider networks linked to the organisation. “Once the verification process is completed, appropriate legal steps will be taken,” he added.

Meanwhile, Kurigram’s Superintendent of Police, Khondaker Fazle Rabbi, stated that a case would be filed against the detainees under the Anti-Terrorism Act. He reiterated that law enforcement agencies remain determined to prevent any resurgence of banned militant outfits and will take strict action against those attempting to spread extremist ideology under any guise.

Details of the Detainees

The incident has once again highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement in curbing extremist activities and ensuring that banned organisations do not regain a foothold through clandestine operations.