Authorities in Sitakunda Upazila, Chattogram, have reported a brazen armed robbery targeting a local woman. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon near the Mandarītola road junction, adjacent to the Buddhist crematorium along the Dhaka–Chattogram highway.
The victim, Sandhya Rani Sharma (58), a resident of Hatilota in Barabkunda Union, is the daughter of the late Umesh Sharma. Family members stated that while travelling from her home to Barabkunda market, two unidentified individuals blocked her path on the roadside near the crematorium. Brandishing a weapon, the assailants threatened her at close range and forcibly snatched gold earrings, a nose ring, 10,000 taka in cash, and a mobile phone. When she resisted, she was physically assaulted before the robbers fled the scene.
Her younger brother, Sabuj Sharma, told our representative that his sister had travelled from her in-laws’ residence in Feni to Sitakunda on Wednesday for a short visit. Following the attack, Sandhya Rani received immediate local medical treatment for her injuries.
Speaking to the media, Officer-in-Charge (OC) Mohinul Islam of Sitakunda Police Station confirmed that no formal written complaint has yet been submitted by the victim’s family. “Once a written complaint is lodged, legal action will be initiated,” he said.
In a related incident within the same union, a temple theft was reported at the Shree Shree Shyamrai Mahaprabhu Ashram in South Mahmudabad, Charalkandi. The temple authorities stated that during the night, following routine religious activities, intruders forced open the temple lock and stole six brass idols, approximately one bhori of gold ornaments, and ten bhori of silver jewellery. The theft was discovered at dawn when the temple doors were opened for morning prayers. A formal complaint was subsequently filed with the police.
Rajib Nath, General Secretary of the Ashram Committee, said, “After completing the night’s rituals, two caretakers were asleep inside the ashram. During the night, thieves broke in and carried away valuable items.”
OC Mohinul Islam confirmed, “A written complaint has been received regarding the temple theft. Police have visited the scene and are conducting an ongoing investigation.”
Summary of Recent Crimes in Barabkunda Union, Sitakunda
| Date | Location | Incident Type | Items Stolen / Losses |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 February 2026 | Mandarītola Road, Barabkunda | Armed robbery | 10,000 Taka, mobile phone, gold earrings, nose ring |
| 26 February 2026 | South Mahmudabad, Charalkandi | Temple burglary | 6 brass idols, ~1 bhori gold ornaments, 10 bhori silver |
These incidents have raised public concern over security in Sitakunda. Police have indicated that patrols have been increased, particularly along the highway and near religious sites, while investigations are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators.
The series of events highlights growing security challenges in rural Chattogram, emphasising the need for enhanced vigilance and rapid response from local law enforcement.