In a shocking incident in Jagannathpur, Sunamganj, the home of a war-injured freedom fighter was reportedly demolished and looted by a local political faction, allegedly after the family refused to pay extortion. The attack has left the veteran’s family in a state of heightened insecurity, raising serious concerns about the protection of war heroes and their descendants.
The incident took place on Sunday, 15 March, around midday in Islampur village, Rani Ganj Union. According to the victim’s family, the assailants included Nizam Uddin, organisational secretary of the local Jubo Dal unit, and his associates, Sihab Mia and Majnu Mia. Eyewitnesses captured the attack on video, showing masked individuals ransacking the house and looting its contents. While the footage appears to implicate Nizam Uddin, he has denied being present at the scene, stating via telephone that he had no knowledge of the incident and did not attend the site.
Background of the Victim
The victim’s father, the late Abdullah Khan, was a wounded freedom fighter who had resided on government-allotted land in Islampur village since Bangladesh’s independence. The plot was later formally granted to him under a 99-year lease in his name.
Following political changes on 5 August, sources claim that Nizam Uddin began pressuring the family to forcibly occupy the property. When the family refused an alleged BDT 500,000 extortion demand made to Abdullah Khan’s eldest son, Abdul Goffar, the assailants reportedly resorted to violence.
According to the family, Nizam Uddin led a group on Sunday to demolish the house and loot its furnishings, resulting in losses estimated at BDT 2 million.
Abdul Goffar said:
“For a long time, Nizam Uddin and Sihab Mia have been attempting to seize our family land. I even filed a written complaint with the local police. In retaliation, they demanded 500,000 taka. When we refused, they destroyed our house and stole all the furniture. We now feel completely unsafe in our own home.”
Law Enforcement Response
SI Hadi Abdullah, Deputy Inspector of Jagannathpur Police Station, visited the site and confirmed the demolition. He stated:
“We arrived at the location after receiving news of the attack. The house, built on land leased to the freedom fighter’s family, has been destroyed. Police are currently investigating the matter and gathering evidence.”
Authorities are reportedly reviewing video footage and collecting witness statements. No arrests have been confirmed yet, although the investigation remains ongoing.
Alleged Perpetrators and Property Details
| Name | Position/Role | Allegation |
|---|---|---|
| Nizam Uddin | Jubo Dal Organisational Secretary | Alleged leader of demolition & looting |
| Sihab Mia | Associate of Nizam Uddin | Participated in attack |
| Majnu Mia | Associate of Nizam Uddin | Participated in attack |
| Victim Family | Descendants of Late Abdullah Khan | Targeted for refusing extortion |
| Property Details | 99-year lease government land, Islampur | Demolished & looted |
The incident has provoked outrage among local residents, who have condemned the political intimidation and lawlessness involved. The victim’s family continues to live in fear, requesting police protection as the investigation proceeds.
This attack highlights the ongoing vulnerabilities faced by the families of war heroes, particularly in rural areas where political influence and extortion attempts can threaten both property and personal safety. Authorities have pledged to ensure justice and hold the perpetrators accountable.