Rajshahi, Jan 10 (V7N) — Allegations have surfaced that the Daspukur ID Bagan area in Rajshahi city has become a hub for illegal drug trading, raising grave concerns among local residents about safety and law and order.

A visit to the area revealed that various narcotics, including heroin, yaba, cannabis, and tapentadol tablets, are reportedly available at any time of the day. Drug transactions were seen taking place openly near the Daspukur ID Bagan railway crossing, where a dealer was allegedly selling yaba and tapentadol tablets directly to customers in public view.

During the visit, a drug user named Aminul was found purchasing narcotics. When asked, he said he had bought three tapentadol tablets and three yaba tablets. He also claimed that around 20 to 30 drug dealers operate in the area and that all types of drugs are available around the clock. According to locals, drug users frequently move through nearby alleys from morning until late night, arriving on motorcycles, rickshaws, or on foot to purchase drugs openly.

Several residents alleged that students from schools and colleges, along with young adults, are the primary customers. Locals described the entire area as resembling an open marketplace where drugs are bought and sold without secrecy.

Residents further claimed that a powerful syndicate is operating behind the flourishing drug trade. Despite political changes, the faces behind the drug business have not disappeared, they alleged, but instead continue operations under different names and identities. According to local claims, a few well-known figures locally referred to as “emperors” and “empresses” are controlling the syndicate. While police occasionally arrest small-scale sellers, locals allege that the main masterminds remain beyond the reach of law enforcement.

The easy availability of drugs has reportedly worsened the overall law and order situation in the area. Incidents of theft, snatching, and the activities of juvenile gangs have increased alarmingly. A resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that moving through the area after evening has become risky due to harassment by drug users and threats from dealers. He added that residents are often intimidated if they protest.

When contacted, Officer-in-Charge of Rajpara Police Station, Md Abdul Malek, said the police maintain a zero-tolerance policy against drugs. He stated that regular drives are being conducted in the Daspukur area and that no drug dealer would be spared. He also assured that legal action would be taken against anyone involved, regardless of their influence, following proper investigation.

Meanwhile, local residents have demanded immediate, effective, and visible measures to dismantle the drug syndicate so that normalcy and a safe living environment can be restored in the area.

END/MRA/SMA/