In a disturbing incident in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar, six children were abducted while playing on Sunday evening, 30 December. Two of the children managed to escape, local authorities reported, prompting an ongoing search operation by police in the area.
The kidnapping took place in South Shilkhali Purbopara of Baharchhara Union, where residents described a terrifying encounter with armed assailants. According to eyewitnesses, the armed men descended from nearby hills and forcibly took the children into a remote area, raising fears over their safety and wellbeing.
The names and ages of the abducted children are Mamun (17), Anwar Hossain (14), Gias Uddin (15), and Abu Bakkar Siddique (13). The two who escaped have been identified as Ismail (17) and Shahin (13). The escapees reportedly provided crucial information about the attackers’ appearance and the direction in which they fled, which authorities are using to guide the ongoing search operation.
Police have launched an immediate investigation, deploying personnel to the surrounding hills and remote locations. Local law enforcement has urged residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity. “Our primary goal is the safe recovery of the children,” said a police spokesperson. “We are coordinating closely with local communities and using all available resources to trace the suspects.”
Kidnappings in the region, though relatively rare, have caused growing concern among residents. Teknaf, a border area known for its hilly terrain and dense forests, has occasionally experienced security challenges due to its proximity to the Bangladesh–Myanmar border. Experts have highlighted that remote locations such as South Shilkhali Purbopara are difficult to monitor, which can be exploited by criminal elements.
The incident has also drawn attention from local NGOs and child protection organisations, who have urged swift action to ensure the children’s safety and to provide psychological support to the escapees.
The situation remains tense as police continue the search. Authorities are appealing for any information that could help locate the kidnapped children and bring those responsible to justice.
A summary of the incident is as follows:
| Child’s Name | Age | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Mamun | 17 | Kidnapped |
| Anwar Hossain | 14 | Kidnapped |
| Gias Uddin | 15 | Kidnapped |
| Abu Bakkar Siddique | 13 | Kidnapped |
| Ismail | 17 | Escaped |
| Shahin | 13 | Escaped |
Authorities have stressed that the operation remains a high priority, reflecting the urgency and gravity of the case.
