Rangpur, Oct 3 (V7N) – Law enforcement authorities have arrested Enayet Ali Rocky Mia, the prime accused in the abduction and assault of senior journalist Liakat Ali Badal in Rangpur. He was apprehended in Dhaka’s Ray Saheb area on the night of October 1 with the assistance of digital surveillance by members of RAB-10. Later, he was handed over to Rangpur Metropolitan Police.

On October 2, at around 7 p.m., Rocky was brought back to Rangpur and produced before the Metropolitan Magistrate Court-1 by the investigating officer, Sub-Inspector Sudipta Shaheen. Magistrate Dewan Moniruzzaman rejected his bail plea and ordered him into jail custody. Under strict security, he was transferred to Rangpur Central Jail.

Earlier, police had arrested two other accused in the case—Ratan Mia and Sagar. Meanwhile, the authorities have transferred several Rangpur City Corporation officials linked to the incident, including Chief Executive Officer Umme Fatema, Chief Property Officer Mausumi Afrida, Trade License Section Head Mizanur Rahman Mizan, Chief Administrative Officer Jahangir Kabir Shanto, and Assistant Revenue Officer Tanmoy Kumar Sarkar.

The case stems from an incident on September 21, when journalist Liakat Ali Badal, a reporter for the Daily Sangbad, was allegedly abducted by 15–20 men led by Rocky. The attackers picked him up from Kachari Bazar and took him to the Rangpur City Corporation office. There, in front of the office of the Chief Executive Officer, he was reportedly tortured and pressured to apologize for a news report. The report, published on September 17 under the headline “Trade in Auto Licenses under the Name of July Fighters Worth Five Crore Taka in Rangpur,” exposed alleged corruption in issuing licenses.

As journalists rushed to rescue him, several City Corporation employees and associates blocked the main gate, physically harassed the media personnel, and tried to prevent Badal’s release. Following the attack, Badal filed a case naming 14 individuals, including the Chief Executive Officer, and 20–25 unidentified persons.

The assault has sparked widespread outrage among journalists across Rangpur and beyond. Various protest programs have been organized, with media professionals demanding swift justice under the Speedy Trial Act and immediate removal of the implicated City Corporation officials. A solidarity rally has been announced for October 7.

Rangpur Metropolitan Police Commissioner Md. Majid Ali described the attack on the journalist as “deeply regrettable,” confirming that Rocky will be remanded for further interrogation. He also noted that co-accused Ratan has already given a confessional statement under Section 164. Police have assured that all remaining suspects will be arrested soon and the investigation will be concluded without delay.

Divisional Commissioner Md. Shahidul Islam stated that a one-member inquiry committee has been formed and departmental actions will be taken against the involved City Corporation officials and employees.

Rangpur Press Union President Sarakuzzaman Salek welcomed the arrest of the prime accused but urged authorities to bring all perpetrators to justice, file the charge sheet swiftly, and ensure exemplary punishment.

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