In a chilling series of robberies, armed assailants disguised as police officers terrorised families in the Maheshpur Upazila of Jhenaidah, seizing substantial amounts of cash and gold while holding children at gunpoint.
The incidents occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning in the villages of Bajrapur and Valipur, leaving local communities shaken.
Kotchandpur Circle Additional Superintendent of Police, Sayem Yousuf, confirmed the details to The Daily Star. He reported that a group of four to five robbers, dressed in police uniforms, forcibly entered the residence of Abul Hossain in Bajrapur. The criminals restrained Hossain’s grandson at gunpoint while isolating other family members in separate rooms. Under threats to their lives, the intruders stole approximately BDT 800,000 in cash along with three tolas of gold jewellery before fleeing.
According to the police superintendent, as the robbers made their escape, neighbours responded to the family’s cries for help and managed to capture one of the suspects. The individual was subsequently handed over to law enforcement authorities.
On the same morning, a similar incident unfolded in Valipur village, where robbers targeted the home of Kamal Hossain. There, they held Hossain’s daughter at gunpoint and stole BDT 280,000 in cash along with two tolas of gold. Following the incident, authorities apprehended a suspect in connection with the Valipur robbery. Due to the ongoing investigation, the police have withheld further details.
“These coordinated attacks are alarming. Wearing police uniforms allowed the criminals to instil fear and gain swift access to homes. We are working urgently to apprehend all involved and reassure the community,” ASP Sayem Yousuf stated.
Summary of Jhenaidah Robberies (Tuesday, Early Morning)
| Village | Victim | Cash Stolen (BDT) | Gold Stolen (Tolas) | Children Threatened | Suspects Apprehended |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bajrapur | Abul Hossain | 800,000 | 3 | 1 (grandson) | 1 |
| Valipur | Kamal Hossain | 280,000 | 2 | 1 (daughter) | 1 |
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Investigations are ongoing, and police have reassured the public that enhanced patrols and security measures are being implemented in affected areas.