Rajapur Drug Trade Allegedly Backed by BNP Leader

Allegations have surfaced that an illegal drug trade is operating in Rajapur, Jhalakathi, allegedly under the patronage of BNP leader Mirajul Islam Tutul Gazi. Local residents claim that his political influence has discouraged people from speaking openly about the alleged activities. Tutul currently serves as secretary of the Galua Union unit of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

A case has also been filed against him under the Narcotics Control Act, with Rajapur Police Station acting as the complainant. Local residents have alleged that Tutul has not been arrested because of his purported close relations with members of the police. However, these allegations have not been independently verified.

According to information gathered in connection with the case, Rajapur police launched an operation at around 9pm on 7 August following a tip-off. A team led by Sub-Inspector Delwar Hossain conducted a raid in the area around Adakhola Community Clinic and arrested Hasan Hawlader, 19, and Mehedi Hasan, 23.

Police later extended the operation. At around 11pm, officers arrested Aowlad Hossain, 19, of the Putiyakhali area, from Sonali Mor. During the operation, yaba tablets were recovered from the three detainees.

Police alleged that Tutul Gazi fled after becoming aware of the officers’ presence, carrying what was described as the main consignment of yaba. A total of 22 yaba tablets were recovered from the three arrested men. Police also said that information obtained during questioning indicated that Tutul was allegedly in possession of a much larger quantity of the drug.

Hasan, Mehedi and Aowlad were subsequently named as accused in a case filed at Rajapur Police Station. Sub-Inspector Delwar Hossain lodged the case as the complainant. The three men were produced before a Jhalakathi court on 8 August, after which the court ordered that they be sent to jail.

The allegations have also raised questions among residents about the role of law enforcement in the area. Several people from Putiyakhali, speaking on condition of anonymity, alleged that members of the district police’s Detective Branch (DB) frequently visit Putiyakhali Market and sometimes spend time at the office of a cooperative association allegedly run by Tutul Gazi.

The residents claimed that DB personnel sit there, have tea and refreshments, and then leave. They questioned why members of a law enforcement agency would maintain contact with someone facing allegations of direct involvement in the drug trade. Some residents also raised allegations of possible financial transactions, although no evidence supporting those claims was presented.

Residents suggested that CCTV footage from Putiyakhali Market could help establish whether such visits and interactions took place. The allegations concerning the DB’s conduct, however, remain allegations and would require an independent investigation and supporting evidence to establish their validity.

Concern over the alleged spread of drugs has prompted local residents to organise public protests. On the afternoon of 9 August, residents held an anti-drug rally at Putiyakhali Mirerhat Market. Following the rally, participants organised a procession through the market area, calling for stronger action against the illegal drug trade.

Aminul Islam, acting chairman of Galua Union, said Tutul Gazi had been appointed secretary of the union BNP while Shahjahan Omar was associated with the party. According to Aminul, Tutul became involved in drug trading after the political situation changed on 5 August, and the alleged operation subsequently expanded.

Aminul further alleged that Tutul operated a daily instalment-based cooperative association while using it as a cover for the drug trade. He also said Tutul’s position as union BNP secretary enabled him to establish contacts with senior administrative officials who visited the Putiyakhali Mirerhat area.

The allegations have not, however, been established by a court, and Tutul Gazi’s response to the accusations was not available in the information provided.

Mohammad Humayun Kabir, officer-in-charge of the DB, rejected any suggestion that his unit would compromise on drug-related offences. He said no individual would receive preferential treatment because of political status or influence. According to him, if any member of the DB is found to have maintained improper contact or colluded with anyone in relation to such activities, departmental action will be taken on the basis of specific evidence.

The case and the wider allegations now place the focus on the investigation and the evidence that emerges. While three individuals have already been arrested and 22 yaba tablets seized, the allegations against Tutul Gazi and claims concerning possible links between him and law enforcement officials will require due investigation before any further conclusions can be drawn.