Illegal Firearm Seizure Sparks Mob Assault in Kushtia

A man has been arrested in Kushtia’s Sadar Upazila after being found in possession of an illegal firearm and ammunition, before being assaulted by a crowd and handed over to the police in an incident that briefly heightened tension in the area.

The episode took place at around 10am on Thursday in the Kabil Mor area of Hatsh Haripur Union. Local residents detained the suspect, later identified as 35-year-old Farid Hossain, and conducted a search on him after growing suspicious of his movements. He is the son of the late Buro Mia from the Riverbank field area of the same union.

According to eyewitness accounts and police statements, Farid Hossain had been seen loitering in the area, prompting concern among some locals who claimed he had been behaving suspiciously for an extended period. Acting on their suspicions, a group of residents apprehended him and searched his belongings. During the search, they reportedly recovered a revolver along with six rounds of ammunition.

News of the recovery quickly spread through the locality, drawing a larger crowd to the scene. The situation escalated as some individuals began assaulting him, leaving him injured. For a short period, the area experienced heightened tension as the crowd gathered and the situation became difficult to control.

Police from Kushtia Model Police Station arrived promptly and brought the situation under control. Officers rescued the injured suspect from the crowd and took him into custody. He was subsequently admitted to hospital for treatment under police supervision.

Locals have alleged that Farid Hossain is associated with a group locally referred to as the “Shipon Bahini”, and claim he has long been suspected of involvement in unlawful activities in the area. Some residents also expressed concern that he may have had links to wider criminal networks and could potentially be connected to additional illegal arms.

The incident has renewed calls from residents for stronger and more consistent action against illegal weapons in the region. Many believe that regular operations targeting unlawful arms possession would help reduce such occurrences and improve public safety.

Officer-in-Charge of Kushtia Model Police Station, Kabir Hossain Matubbar, confirmed the recovery of a revolver and six rounds of ammunition. He stated that the suspect was injured in a mob assault and is currently receiving treatment in hospital. Police have launched an investigation into the matter.

Authorities are now examining the origin of the weapon and whether any other individuals or groups are involved. The situation in the area remains under observation as inquiries continue.