Awami League Leader Arrested Under Anti-Terrorism Act in Rangamati

In a targeted operation, law enforcement authorities in Rangamati have arrested Ongsuichain Chowdhury, a prominent local politician and President of the Kaptai Upazila Awami League. The police operation took place at approximately 4:00 pm on Sunday, 26 July, in the Happy-r Mor area near the Court Building precinct in Rangamati town.

According to police sources, the operation was executed by Kotwali Police Station following a specific tip-off regarding the suspect’s presence in the vicinity. Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Rangamati Kotwali Police Station, Mohammad Jasim Uddin, confirmed the arrest, stating that Mr Chowdhury was apprehended in connection with a pending case registered under the Anti-Terrorism Act. Following his arrest, the accused was produced before a local court, which subsequently remanded him to judicial custody.

Senior police officials indicated that Mr Chowdhury has been under surveillance due to several prior allegations against his name. Authorities emphasised that legal proceedings were initiated to prevent potential disruptions to public order and to safeguard regional peace and security.

Context and Political Background

Mr Chowdhury is a well-known figure within the political landscape of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Over his lengthy career, he has served as the President of the Kaptai Upazila Awami League and held the position of Chairman of the Kaptai Upazila Parishad for a substantial tenure. Furthermore, he remains an executive member of the Rangamati District Awami League committee.

Local political commentators note that this is not Mr Chowdhury’s first encounter with the legal system. He was previously detained on separate charges and spent time in prison before securing bail. Over the years, his political activities and public engagements have frequently drawn regulatory scrutiny, with authorities investigating multiple complaints regarding allegations of political violence and public nuisance.

The arrest comes amidst heightened security measures across the hill districts, where law enforcement agencies have intensified operations targeting individuals suspected of threatening public order or engaging in activities proscribed under anti-terrorism legislation. Further judicial proceedings regarding Mr Chowdhury’s bail and trial charges are expected to resume in the coming days.