Another Journalist Abducted and Attempted Murder in Ashulia, Two Arrested

Barely recovering from the murder of journalist Tuhin in Gazipur, another chilling incident has occurred in Ashulia, where Jahidul Islam Anik, a correspondent for a private television channel, was abducted and subjected to an attempted murder. Two suspects involved in the incident were apprehended by locals and handed over to the police.

Incident Details and Arrests

The Ashulia Police Station’s Operations Officer, Sofikul Islam Sumon, confirmed the arrest of the two suspects on Tuesday morning (12 August).

The attack took place on Monday (11 August) around 10:30 pm at Baipail in Ashulia.

The victim, journalist Jahidul Islam Anik, was rescued and initially taken to Dhamrai Upazila Health Complex before being admitted to a local clinic for further treatment.

The two arrested individuals are identified as Md. Imon (32), son of the late Wahed from Khadail Mithapur village, Badalgachhi Police Station, Naogaon District, and Md. Zahid Hossain (23).

Victim’s Account

Jahidul Islam Anik, the Ashulia correspondent for 71 Television, described the harrowing experience:

“After completing an investigation on Monday night, I was heading to a tea stall when two individuals on a motorcycle were waiting for me. As I proceeded towards my home, they followed me. Upon arriving at Baipail Bus Stand, I saw four more individuals waiting in a private car.

Before I could react, they attacked me with homemade weapons and attempted to force me into the car. Fortunately, locals intervened, causing them to flee. Two suspects were apprehended and handed over to the police.”

He further explained the motive behind the attack:

“My investigation focused on the illegal supply and sale of drugs disguised as pharmacies. That is why I was targeted.

They knew I would be heading to the Palli Bidyut area in Ashulia after work. Their plan was to create a hostile situation and abduct me. Realising their plan, I tried to leave the area, but they pursued me and had already stationed themselves with weapons and a private car along the road leading to my home at Baipail.

They tried to force me into the vehicle; one of them even attempted to attack me with a sharp weapon, but I was not injured. The others physically assaulted me. Locals came to my aid, causing the attackers to flee in the car.

The two on motorcycles were unable to escape because their vehicles would not start. They were caught by locals, who informed the police. Afterwards, I was taken to Dhamrai Upazila Health Complex and later admitted to a local clinic after receiving initial treatment.”

Police Action

Sofikul Islam Sumon, Operations Officer of Ashulia Police, stated:

“Upon receiving news of the incident, several teams were dispatched to the scene. Two suspects have been arrested, and operations continue to apprehend the remaining individuals. The two arrested will be sent to court.”

This latest attack underscores the increasing dangers faced by journalists in the region, particularly those investigating sensitive issues such as illicit drug trade. The swift action by the local community and police prevented what could have been a tragic outcome.