In a violent incident during an anti-drug operation in Checherirampur, Kathalia Upazila, Jhalokathi, on Tuesday afternoon (24 February), Sub-Inspector Ratan Chandra Hawladar sustained injuries while confronting a suspected drug trafficker. The officer is currently receiving treatment at a local hospital and his condition has been reported as stable.
According to police sources, a special team from Kathalia Police Station was conducting an operation targeting illicit drug activity when Sujan Hawladar, 30, the son of Sobahan Hawladar of Checherirampur Union, was apprehended. During his arrest, Sujan allegedly resisted violently, biting SI Ratan Chandra Hawladar’s hand in an attempt to escape. The officer was injured in the altercation, but police swiftly pursued and apprehended Sujan along with eight pieces of yaba tablets.
Abu Nasir Raihan, Officer-in-Charge of Kathalia Police Station, confirmed:
“A case under the Narcotics Control Act has been filed against the suspect. The injured officer has received the necessary medical attention, and his condition is now stable.”
Local sources say that the drug trade has long been prevalent in Checherirampur, with illicit substances circulating across the area. Regular operations by the police, particularly through the Rapid Response Team, have helped curb such criminal activity, though challenges remain.
The key details of the incident are summarised in the table below:
| Subject | Details |
|---|---|
| Injured Officer | Ratan Chandra Hawladar, SI, Kathalia Police Station |
| Location of Incident | Checherirampur, Kathalia Upazila, Jhalokathi |
| Date & Time | Tuesday, 24 February, afternoon |
| Suspect | Sujan Hawladar, 30, son of Sobahan Hawladar |
| Seized Items | 8 pieces of yaba |
| Legal Action | Case filed under Narcotics Control Act |
| Medical Treatment | Primary care at local hospital; condition stable |
Authorities have stated that anti-drug operations will be intensified, with regular checkposts and patrols continuing in the affected areas. In addition, local administration and police are working to raise public awareness while maintaining active field operations.
Residents expressed concern over the ongoing drug-related unrest, noting that “drug-related terror is creating fear in the area, but we hope police and administrative efforts will restore control.”
The incident underscores the risks faced by law enforcement officers during anti-narcotics operations and highlights the necessity of vigilance, coordination, and rapid response in such high-risk situations. Police have reiterated that combating drug trafficking in Kathalia Upazila remains a top priority, and operations against criminal networks will continue unabated.