Rajshahi, Apr 24 (V7N) - The law and order situation in Bagmara Upazila of Rajshahi has reportedly deteriorated recently, causing increasing concern among the public. Allegations of extreme negligence and carelessness by law enforcement agencies have surfaced amidst a rise in various criminal activities.

These activities include a drug-related double murder in the Jhikra area, the robbery of Tk 150,000 and 18 mobile phones from a businessman in Bhabaniganj Bazar, theft of motorcycles and vans, rape, general theft, drug distribution, attacks, vandalism, clashes, land grabbing, juvenile crime, and illegal pond digging. This surge in criminal activity has created a climate of fear and anxiety among the residents.

According to Bagmara Police Station, a drug addict allegedly hacked and killed a fish trader in a dispute over drugs in Jhikra Union last Friday afternoon. Subsequently, villagers reportedly chased and beat the drug addict to death on the spot. This instance of mob violence has further heightened fear among locals, with concerns raised that such actions may obscure the true motives behind incidents and allow culprits to evade justice. Two cases were filed with Bagmara Police Station following this double killing, but no arrests have been made.

On the same day, a businessman in Bhabaniganj Bazar was robbed of a significant amount of cash and mobile phones by two motorcycle-borne assailants near the upazila main gate. Although two alleged robbers were arrested in Dhaka a week later, the stolen money and phones have not been recovered.

Also on the same day, the motorcycle of the Bagmara Press Club President was stolen from Hamirkutsa Bazar while he was at prayer. Despite video footage of the theft being recovered, no progress has been reported in identifying the thief or recovering the motorcycle. Similarly, a week prior, another motorcycle was stolen from the Upazila Parishad premises during a law and order committee meeting, with the thief yet to be identified despite CCTV footage.

In another incident, a 12-year-old girl was accused of sexually assaulting a child. Following a police case, the accused was arrested after being detained by the public. Additionally, a 50-year-old man was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl who had come to his house. He reportedly confessed to the crime before being handed over to the police. Locals claim this individual has a history of harassing women.

Furthermore, a man in Bagmara was accused of attempting to kill his wife by pouring acid-like liquid on her face due to a family dispute. The victim is in critical condition at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, while her husband remains absconding.

Locals also report a significant rise in drug trafficking, juvenile delinquency, and online gambling. Despite recent police and narcotics control raids resulting in arrests, the spread of drugs continues. An assistant professor at a local college expressed concern over the administration's apparent inability to effectively combat drug issues.

Illegal pond digging has become widespread in the upazila, leading to incidents of land grabbing, fights, vandalism, and arson. Despite court cases and High Court directives, this activity persists, with extensive pond digging occurring at night in several areas.

Ganipur UP Chairman Adv. Moniruzzaman Ranju and High Court lawyer Barrister Salequzzaman Sagar, residents of Bagmara, voiced their concerns over the deteriorating law and order situation, citing murder, extortion, and squatting as rampant issues, exacerbated by illegal pond digging. Barrister Sagar alleged that despite his re-petition to the High Court resulting in directives to authorities to stop illegal pond digging, the local administration's negligence has hindered effective action.

Bagmara Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Touhidul Islam acknowledged the challenges of policing a large area with a substantial population, stating that the police are working continuously to control unwanted incidents.

Bagmara Upazila Executive Officer Mahbubul Islam admitted that the social sectors have deteriorated due to various factors, citing the recent double murder as evidence. He stated that the district administration has been informed of these issues and that effective measures to control these unwanted incidents will be taken soon.

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