Attack on RAB members announced over a microphone

In a brazen assault, members of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) came under attack during an operation in Jangal Salimpur, Sitakunda, Chattogram, on Monday evening. RAB sources have stated that between 400 and 500 assailants participated in the assault, which tragically claimed the life of Subedar Md. Motaleb Hossain Bhuiya and left at least three other RAB personnel seriously injured.

According to footage obtained from the police, two RAB microbuses (Hiace vans) were confronted by groups of individuals armed with sticks and rods shortly after entering the area. The attackers broke the windows of the vehicles while making announcements over a loudspeaker, urging locals to block the RAB’s advance.

Another video shows several injured RAB members seated in a room, bandages covering their heads and various parts of their bodies. The floor is stained with blood as police officers assist the injured personnel into vehicles for transportation to medical facilities.

RAB-7 Assistant Director (Media), A. R. M. Mozaffar Hossain, stated that 43 RAB members were conducting an operation to apprehend armed criminals in Salimpur when their presence was detected. Following the loudspeaker announcement, 400–500 assailants attacked the RAB team. The four critically injured officers, including Subedar Motaleb Hossain Bhuiya, were rescued with police assistance and taken to Chattogram Combined Military Hospital (CMH), where Bhuiya was pronounced dead by attending doctors.

Jangal Salimpur, a remote hilly area covering 3,100 acres, has been an epicentre of illegal settlements and land trading for over four decades. Illegal plots continue to be developed, protected by armed groups formed by land grabbers. These groups maintain constant armed vigilance and restrict access to outsiders, including police and government officials, who have frequently faced attacks when attempting to enter the area.

The area’s difficult terrain has made it a safe haven for criminal groups. Political changes last year intensified control struggles, leading to frequent armed conflicts, shootings, and assaults. RAB officials have confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify all individuals involved and determine the exact motive behind the attack. The three injured officers remain under treatment at CMH.

Assistant Director Mozaffar Hossain emphasised, “Efforts continue to uncover the root causes of the attack and bring all perpetrators to justice.”