Matiranga Correspondent, CHT News
Sunday, August 23, 2026
Security forces reportedly detained two local villagers following an early morning raid in the Sadiabari area of Matiranga Upazila, Khagrachhari, on Friday, August 21, 2026. One of the detainees was subsequently released after a reported financial transaction at the police station, while the other was remanded to prison under controversial drug charges.
The detainees have been identified as Bajendra Tripura (50), son of Amar Krishna Tripura, a resident of Sadiabari village (Ward No. 8, Matiranga Union No. 6), and his son-in-law, Laxmi Kumar Tripura (26), son of Bhakta Kumar Tripura.
Local sources report that a contingent of 20 to 25 Bangladesh Army personnel from the Shishakbari Army Camp conducted a search of the victims’ residences at approximately 4:00 AM on Friday.
Both individuals were taken into custody and initially transported to the Matiranga Army Zone. At approximately 6:00 PM the same day, security personnel transferred both men to the Matiranga Police Station.
Laxmi Kumar Tripura was released from police custody following a reported payment of Tk 50,000. Local accounts indicate the transaction was mediated between police officials and an individual identified as Sajal, an alleged member of a local armed faction.
Conversely, authorities charged Bajendra Tripura with possession of cannabis before transferring him to jail via the Khagrachhari District Court. Relatives and local residents allege the drug evidence was fabricated.
Community members highlight a documented pattern of targeting against Bajendra Tripura. He was arrested on March 17, 2024, and imprisoned on firearm charges that locals claim were fabricated, though he was later released on court-ordered bail.
On July 5, 2026, while attending a court hearing, he survived an attempted abduction outside the Khagrachhari court during which his motorcycle was seized.
The following day, on July 6, 2026, he was forced to pay Tk 30,000 in extortion, reduced from an initial demand of Tk 100,000, to an armed group in Matiranga town to recover his vehicle.
Local residents have voiced grave concern over the repeated detention and alleged targeting of Bajendra Tripura, calling on authorities to conduct a fair investigation and secure his immediate release.
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