S A Shofiee, Sylhet :
Recently, theft, robbery, and encroachment have increased in Sylhet. Murders are being committed in broad daylight over trivial incidents. In this situation, public fear prevails. Since the change of government, new groups have emerged in different areas of the city. Criminals have become active. Extortion and encroachment incidents are taking place in the names of various political leaders. Investigations have revealed that more than 25 incidents have occurred in Sylhet city and the entire division in January alone.
Most recently, on Friday, there was a massive clash between the two sides over the encroachment of government land in the Sagardighirpar area of Sylhet city, and arson occurred in vehicles. Several hand grenades were detonated during this. At least 10 people, including the police, were injured in this.
Local sources said that for several years, a private organization from Dhaka named STS Group had been occupying government land adjacent to the Matsya Bhaban in Sagardighirpar, Sylhet. The encroachers were involved in Awami League politics. However, after the change of ownership on August 5, local volunteer party leaders Jamal Ahmed Khan and Lallik Chowdhury took over the place and started constructing a building named ‘Dream City’. This led to clashes between the locals and the followers of the volunteer party leader. Later, the police came and took control of the situation.
Locals alleged that a few days ago, former central organizing secretary of the Awami League, Advocate Misbah Uddin Siraj, was kidnapped and taken to that place and tortured. In addition, a woman was gang-raped at the same place. Police later arrested two people in this incident.
Meanwhile, the police claim that they are actively working to curb crime. Regular patrols continue. Crime experts say, ‘After the July Revolution, the police are going through a special situation.
