A mother and her daughter in Pekua, Cox’s Bazar, have been sentenced to one month in prison by a mobile court led by Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Mahbub Alam, sparking widespread local concern and debate over justice in the area. The punishment reportedly stems from the pair’s attempt to reclaim a bribe allegedly paid to a police officer, raising serious questions about the handling of corruption allegations and accountability within local administration.
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Background and Allegations
The two women are Rehena Mostofa Ranu, 38, widow of the late Nurul Abosar from the former Guldi area of Pekua Upazila, and her 23-year-old daughter, Zubaida Jannat, a college student.
The family alleges that the dispute arose from a land-related legal case. According to their account, Sub-Inspector Pallab of Pekua Police Station demanded BDT 20,000 in bribes in exchange for ensuring that the investigation report would favour their claim. After paying the amount, they claim that Pallab submitted the report to the opposing party instead.
On 4 March, when Ranu and her daughter sought the return of the money, they were reportedly assaulted and detained by the officer at the police station. Eyewitness Monjila Begum, a neighbour accompanying Zubaida, said:
“I was there when Zubaida asked for the return of the money. SI Pallab became aggressive and attacked her. Later, the police detained both mother and daughter and told us to leave the premises.”
Mobile Court Verdict
Following the incident, UNO Mahbub Alam arrived at the station. Family members allege that, despite presenting evidence of bribery and harassment, the mobile court held the mother and daughter accountable for assaulting a police officer and obstructing official duties, sentencing them to one month’s imprisonment.
Zubaida’s younger brother, Rubel, said:
“This concerns our ancestral property. Instead of investigating SI Pallab’s misconduct, the UNO blamed my mother and sister. It appears the police and UNO acted together to punish the victims.”
Rehena’s sister, Amena Munni, added:
“This is a deliberate framing. We demand their immediate release and a full investigation into the officials involved.”
Official Statements
UNO Mahbub Alam told reporters:
“The sentence was delivered for obstructing government work at the police station and involvement in a physical altercation with a police officer. Allegations of bribery are under investigation. Immediate action was required due to misconduct.”
Pekua Police Officer-in-Charge Khairul Alam supported the mobile court decision:
“The mother and daughter assaulted police personnel at the station, which justified the UNO’s ruling. I am unaware of any bribery claims.”
Attempts to reach SI Pallab for comment were unsuccessful.
Local Reaction and Political Implications
The incident has caused considerable unrest in Pekua, the home constituency of Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed. Residents have demanded the immediate release of the mother and daughter and called for a thorough investigation into the conduct of both the police officer and the mobile court.
Summary of Incident
| Person | Age | Relation | Allegation | Outcome | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rehena Mostofa Ranu | 38 | Mother | Assault on police & obstruction | 1-month imprisonment | Alleged bribe dispute with SI Pallab |
| Zubaida Jannat | 23 | Daughter | Assault on police & obstruction | 1-month imprisonment | College student; alleged bribe dispute |
| SI Pallab | N/A | Police officer | Bribe demand & misconduct | Under investigation | Alleged submission of report to opposing party |
| UNO Mahbub Alam | N/A | Upazila Executive Officer | Oversaw mobile court | Sentencing authority | Mobile court ruling controversial |
The case has drawn national attention, highlighting the difficulties citizens face when challenging corruption and questioning the use of mobile courts in sensitive legal matters. It underscores ongoing concerns about accountability and transparency in local law enforcement and administrative procedures.