BNP leader arrested in Rajbari, illegal firearms recovered

Rajbari, Bangladesh – In a coordinated operation yesterday, joint law enforcement teams arrested a prominent BNP leader along with an associate in Baliakandi, Rajbari, in possession of illegal firearms and other contraband. The operation, which lasted from noon to 5 pm, took place at a brick kiln in Baliakandi Sadar Union.

The main suspect, Khondkar Moshiul Azam (55), is a former General Secretary of Baliakandi Upazila BNP and a member of the district BNP convening committee. He was apprehended alongside Md. Ridoy Sheikh, also known as Pappu (30), the son of Rafique Sheikh from Sheikhpara, Baliakandi Sadar.

According to police sources, the seizure included firearms, knives, walkie-talkies, alcohol, mobile phones, and cash. A detailed inventory of the items confiscated is presented below:

Local military camp and police officials revealed that the arrest followed a series of incidents involving Moshiul Azam. Earlier, a motorcyclist was fined at a police checkpoint in Baliakandi Sadar Upazila Market. Azam, reportedly leading a group of associates, allegedly attacked the duty officers and freed the motorcyclist.

In response, Sub-Inspector Khairul Islam filed a case at Baliakandi Police Station on 17 December, accusing Azam of obstructing government duties and assaulting law enforcement officers. Azam had reportedly been evading arrest since then.

Further allegations against Moshiul Azam include forcibly taking over a brick kiln owned by Md. Sabbir Hossain on 5 August. He also faces cases related to violence against women and children, explosives possession, extortion, attempted murder, clashes, obstruction of government duties, and terrorism—amounting to a total of 18 ongoing cases.

During preliminary interrogation by the joint forces, Azam reportedly admitted to conducting extortion in the area and coordinating his group’s operations using unlicensed walkie-talkies.

Moshiul Azam’s wife, Kohinur Begum, told reporters, “I understand he was arrested for the ongoing case, but I also hear there is a conspiracy against him. I will seek justice through the proper courts.”

Assistant Superintendent of Police (Pangsha Circle) Devbrata Sarkar stated that Azam has been detained at Rajbari Sadar Police Station. Additional cases under the Arms Act and the Bangladesh Telecommunications Regulatory Act, 2001, have been filed against him. Preparations are underway to present him in court today.