15 Bags of Government Rice Seized in Haluaghat

Authorities in Haluaghat Upazila, Mymensingh District, recovered 15 bags of government rice allocated under the Food-Friendly Programme from a private residence in Char Gorpur, Dhurail Union. The seizure took place during a late-night operation on Tuesday, 17 March, at approximately 12:30 a.m., confirmed Janat, the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO).

According to local sources and administrative officials, the rice had been recently distributed in Dhurail Union under the government’s Food-Friendly Programme. Allegedly, Ashraf Uddin, the accused, purchased the rice at subsidised rates from eligible beneficiaries and stored it in his home for personal use, circumventing the official distribution system.

The operation was initiated following a confidential tip-off to the administration by Abu Raihan, the Chief Coordinator of the Upazila National Coordination Panel (NCP). Acting on the information, the UNO personally visited the site and discovered the 15 bags of rice, each weighing 50 kilograms, stacked near fish feed in the household premises.

At the time of the raid, Ashraf Uddin was not present at the residence, and therefore, authorities were unable to take him into immediate custody. Preparations are underway to file a formal case against him at the local police station for purchasing and hoarding government rice illegally.

Janat, the UNO, stated: “Our investigation was prompted by a confidential report, and the subsequent operation confirmed the allegations. Purchasing and hoarding government-supplied rice is a punishable offence. Such irregularities will not be tolerated, and strict legal action will follow.”

The incident highlights ongoing challenges in ensuring that government-provided food assistance reaches its intended recipients without diversion. The Food-Friendly Programme, aimed at supporting low-income and vulnerable populations, provides subsidised rice to eligible households across the region.

Seized Rice Details

Authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious activities involving government relief supplies to ensure transparency and proper distribution.

The case remains under investigation, and officials have promised swift legal proceedings once the accused is apprehended. This seizure underscores the administration’s commitment to curbing food-related corruption and safeguarding public welfare programmes.