In a shocking incident in Hatiya, Noakhali, local residents have detained a mosque imam accused of abducting a seventh-grade girl. The event has sparked widespread anger across the community, with the victim’s family demanding exemplary legal action against the accused.
On Monday morning, 5 January, the girl was safely returned to her family by local residents. Sources report that the girl, a student of a local madrasa, had gone missing several days earlier, causing her family to launch an extensive search. Their worst fears were confirmed when it was discovered that the imam of a nearby mosque had allegedly taken her.
The accused, Maulana Abdul Karim, aged 35, serves as the imam of a mosque and teacher at a madrasa located at the head of the road in Sonadia Chourrasta Bazar. He is the son of Mahmud Haque, a resident of Ward 7 in the local municipality.
After locating the imam in Chittagong, the girl’s relatives apprehended him and brought both him and the girl back to Hatiya. On Sunday evening, as they arrived by river at the local Char Chenga Bazar, a large crowd quickly gathered around them. For safety reasons, the pair were escorted to the residence of Abdul Mannan, secretary of the local market committee, where they were kept under temporary protection.
Speaking to the media, Abdul Mannan said:
“As the girl is underage, her guardians will handle all matters concerning her. The authorities have been informed, and proper action will follow.”
The girl’s father, visibly distressed, said:
“My daughter is still a minor. She was misled and taken away under false pretences. We never expected such behaviour from a religious leader. I demand that my daughter’s safety be ensured and that justice is served.”
The accused, Maulana Abdul Karim, claimed:
“I have a consensual relationship with her. I did not force her to come with me. However, I was subjected to significant mistreatment by the crowd.”
According to Khorshed Alam, officer-in-charge of the Jahazmara police outpost, several locals had reported the matter via mobile phones, but no formal written complaint had been filed yet. He added:
“The girl’s father has been advised to submit an official complaint. Once received, we will take appropriate action.”
Key Details of the Incident :
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Seventh-grade girl, student at a local madrasa |
| Accused | Maulana Abdul Karim, 35 |
| Position | Imam and madrasa teacher, Sonadia Chourrasta Bazar |
| Father of Accused | Mahmud Haque, Ward 7 resident |
| Date Returned | 5 January 2026 |
| Location of Apprehension | Chittagong, brought back to Char Chenga Bazar |
| Temporary Protection | Residence of Abdul Mannan, local market committee secretary |
| Police Action | Awaiting formal complaint from girl’s father |
The incident has stirred a serious discussion on child safety and the responsibilities of religious leaders in the region. Local residents are urging authorities to ensure strict enforcement of the law and appropriate punishment for those involved.