Mongla, Jan 11 (V7N) – Tension is rising in Mongla as allegations surface against Jubo Dal cadres for the forceful occupation of an 80-acre shrimp enclosure in the Pakkhali area near Narkeltala Housing Society of Chandpai Union. Despite a formal complaint lodged with the police, the farm remains under the control of the accused.

On Friday evening, an armed group reportedly affiliated with Jubo Dal stormed the shrimp farm owned by Sheikh A. Salam, former chairman and businessman of Mongla Port Municipality, and retired army officer Major S.M. Jihaduzzaman. The attackers, riding motorcycles, allegedly assaulted security personnel, issued death threats, and forcibly seized control of the farm.

Local sources confirm that since 2006, Sheikh A. Salam has been legally leasing the land for fish farming. In 2017, he partnered with Major Jihaduzzaman, and their latest lease agreement extends until 2027. Substantial investments, amounting to several lakhs of taka, had been made in December and January to stock the farm with Bagda shrimp, Gourami, and other fish species.

However, following the fall of the Awami League government, a faction of Jubo Dal reportedly intensified efforts to seize the lucrative enclosure. Their latest attack involved a 14-15 member armed group, allegedly led by Md. Sumon Fakir, son of the late BNP Municipal Vice-President Fakir Abdus Salam, along with his associate Sohag Sheikh.

In defense, Sumon Fakir claimed that parts of the enclosure belong to his late father and relatives. He further stated that a new deed had been issued in favor of Mongla Municipality BNP Joint Convener Emran Hossain. However, Emran Hossain denied any involvement, saying, "My name is being misused to damage my reputation."

When approached, Mongla Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md. Anisur Rahman dismissed the issue, stating, "It is not the police's responsibility to resolve land disputes."

However, ASP Mushfiqur Rahman Tushar of Mongla-Rampal Circle confirmed receiving the complaint, saying, "Police have been deployed to the scene and an investigation is underway to determine the rightful owner. Legal action will follow accordingly."

The ongoing occupation has left locals and farm employees in fear. The lack of decisive police action has sparked criticism, raising concerns about law enforcement’s role in ensuring justice and property rights.

END/AHS/RH/