NN Online:
In a disturbing incident in Char Shibrampur, Himayetpur Union under Pabna Sadar upazila, a group of armed assailants allegedly attacked a local garment factory, vandalising property and looting finished products—leaving the community in fear.
The factory owner, Md. Robiul Islam Pramanik, has filed a formal complaint with Pabna Sadar Police Station detailing the incident and identifying several attackers.
According to the complaint, Robiul, the proprietor of Messrs. Nawab Traders, had been receiving threats and extortion demands of Tk 2 lakh from a local gang for a prolonged period. “They warned me to shut down the business or face deadly consequences if I didn’t pay,” he alleged.
On April 21, around 8:30 PM, four named individuals—Nur, Ashraf, Zia, and Jannat—alongside 5 to 7 unidentified accomplices, allegedly stormed the factory armed with guns, machetes, axes, iron rods, and GI pipes. The attackers reportedly smashed doors, damaged furniture, and fired shots to create panic.
“They shouted, ‘How dare Robiul run a business without paying us!’ and came at me with weapons. I had to flee for my life,” Robiul recalled, still shaken by the assault.
The gang looted garments worth approximately Tk 1 lakh before escaping. Eyewitnesses, including Nurul Sardar, Ayub Sardar, and Anwar, confirmed the terrifying events. “It was pure chaos. We haven’t witnessed something like this in years,” one said.
Robiul and his family are now living in fear. “The factory is shut. My dream is in ruins. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to start again,” he lamented, appealing for swift justice.
The incident has left the neighborhood gripped with fear, with many residents reluctant to leave their homes. Locals also expressed frustration over what they see as a slow response from law enforcement.
The Officer-in-Charge of Pabna Sadar Police Station confirmed receipt of the complaint and assured that an investigation is underway. “We are taking legal action and have increased patrols in the area,” he said.
The attack highlights the vulnerability of small business owners in rural and semi-urban areas and raises concerns about the broader security environment. Without swift and decisive action, such violence could discourage future entrepreneurs from investing in local enterprises.
