Police in Gaibandha apprehended two local Awami League leaders as they were returning from the Shaheed Minar after paying respects on International Mother Language Day and Martyrs’ Day. The detained individuals are Emarul Islam Sabin, the industry and commerce secretary of the Gaibandha district Awami League unit and former chairman of Ballamjhar Union Parishad, along with Shahin Chakladar, the acting general secretary of the Naldanga union Awami League in Sadullapur upazila, according to police sources.
The arrest took place around 3:00 pm at the Poura Park vicinity following reports of them chanting “Joy Bangla,” as confirmed by Abdullah Al Mamun, the officer-in-charge (OC) of Gaibandha Sadar Police Station. Eyewitnesses and law enforcement officials reported that a group of around 20-25 AL leaders and activists, led by former Sadar Upazila Parishad chairman Aminuzzaman, organized a sudden procession from the district AL office at Rail Gate, proceeding through the town and culminating in laying wreaths at the Shaheed Minar.
Upon their return to the party office with spirited chants, a commotion ensued, prompting police intervention. Subsequently, Sabin and Shahin were apprehended, while the others dispersed to evade capture. OC Al Mamun justified the detentions on grounds of maintaining public order due to the banned activities of the Awami League, despite which they orchestrated the procession. Additionally, there are pending legal cases against the detainees, who have been promptly forwarded to court for further proceedings.
