Armed Robbery at Expat’s Home

An armed gang carried out a late-night robbery at the home of a Saudi Arabia–based expatriate in Araihazar upazila of Narayanganj District, holding residents hostage at gunpoint and injuring a local যুবক who attempted to intervene.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday (26 February) in Kadamtali village under Khagkanda Union. According to eyewitness accounts, a group of 10 to 15 men stormed the residence of Azad, a Bangladeshi expatriate currently living in Saudi Arabia, at approximately 2:00 am.

How the Robbery Unfolded

Residents reported that the assailants scaled a tree to gain access to the property before breaking open a small gate. Once inside, they allegedly brandished firearms and sharp weapons, taking household members hostage.

Under threat, the family was forced to hand over cash, mobile phones and other valuables. The gang is believed to have looted goods worth approximately Tk 150,000 before fleeing the scene.

The situation escalated when cries for help alerted neighbours. A local যুবক named Akhtar rushed towards the house in an attempt to assist. Witnesses say the robbers attacked him with sharp weapons, leaving him seriously injured.

Akhtar was initially taken to a local medical facility before being transferred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment. As of Friday afternoon, he remained under medical care.

Police Response

Officer-in-Charge Md Alauddin of Araihazar Police Station confirmed that police were dispatched to the scene upon receiving reports of the robbery. He stated that a search operation is under way to identify and arrest those responsible, as well as to recover the stolen property.

“We have launched an investigation and are conducting raids in the surrounding এলাকায়,” the OC said. “Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the culprits.”

Law enforcement officials have also indicated that forensic evidence is being collected and that statements are being recorded from victims and witnesses.

Community Concerns

The brazen nature of the robbery has raised alarm among residents of Kadamtali village, who described the attack as unusually organised and violent. Locals expressed concern over security in the এলাকায়, particularly given the targeting of an expatriate’s home—often perceived as holding cash savings and valuables.

Community members have called for increased police patrols and improved night-time security measures to deter further incidents.