Rangamati, May 2 (V7N) - A young man named Akash Khiyang has been arrested by a joint force in Rajasthali for allegedly posting offensive and derogatory content about the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on Facebook, which sparked tensions among the local Muslim community.
According to police and local sources, the inflammatory post, made from Akash’s personal Facebook profile, quickly went viral late Wednesday night. As the post spread, it triggered strong reactions from devout Muslims across Rajasthali Upazila. Local residents identified Akash as the author of the post and reported the matter to authorities.
The situation escalated further when another youth, Aldrin Tonchongya, commented offensively under the post, adding fuel to the already tense atmosphere. Residents of Khiyang Para village, where Akash lives, reportedly gathered near his house upon discovering the post. Initially unaware of the reasons behind the unrest, many began seeking Akash out as news of the post circulated.
Witnesses stated that, as the post gained widespread attention, local community members, including elected officials, were alerted. The village chairman and other authorities informed the police in an effort to prevent violence. Given the mounting tension, security forces, including both police and army personnel, were deployed early Thursday morning.
Akash Khiyang, the son of Kaisa Khiyang, resides in Ward 9 of the Dhanuchhari Khiyang Para area under Ghilaschhari Union of Rajasthali Upazila. The joint forces later apprehended Akash from his home for his safety and to restore public order.
Robert Tripura, Chairman of the Ghilaschhari Union Parishad, stated, "Whoever insults the Prophet of Islam must be brought to justice. As soon as I was informed by locals, I immediately notified the police. Had the authorities not acted promptly, the situation could have spiraled out of control."
Rajasthali Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Iqbal Bahar Chowdhury confirmed that both Akash Khiyang and Aldrin Tonchongya have been accused of making derogatory remarks about the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Following the viral spread of the post, widespread outrage ensued among the local Muslim population.
A joint police-army operation successfully arrested Akash, who was later transferred to Rangamati District Jail under police escort. A case has been filed under Case No. 1, citing Sections 295(A), 505, and 505 of the Penal Code. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend co-accused Aldrin Tonchongya.
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