In Chuadanga’s Jibonnagar upazila, all military personnel, including the camp commander, have been withdrawn following the death of BNP leader Md. Shamsuzzaman, also known as “Doublee,” during a military operation. A high-level inquiry committee has been established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) issued a statement on Tuesday confirming the measures. The press release, titled “Regarding the Death of an Individual during a Joint Force Operation in Jibonnagar, Chuadanga,” provided a detailed account of the events leading to Shamsuzzaman’s death.
According to the ISPR, around 11:00 p.m. on Monday, based on verified intelligence reports, a joint force conducted a special operation in Jibonnagar targeting illegal firearms. During the operation, Shamsuzzaman, aged 50, was apprehended from his business premises, Hafiza Pharmacy, located adjacent to Jibonnagar Upazila Health Complex.
The authorities recovered the following items during the search:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 9mm Pistol | 1 |
| Magazine | 1 |
| Bullets | 4 |
The statement further explained that following his arrest, Shamsuzzaman suddenly became unwell and lost consciousness. He was immediately taken to Jibonnagar Upazila Health Complex, where he was declared dead by the attending physician at approximately 12:25 a.m.
The ISPR emphasised that the incident is “unintended, deeply regrettable, and entirely unacceptable.” The camp commander and all personnel involved in the operation have been withdrawn to the cantonment pending investigation. The newly formed high-level inquiry committee is tasked with determining the exact cause of death. Any personnel found culpable will face disciplinary action under military law.
Shamsuzzaman served as the General Secretary of Jibonnagar BNP. News of his death sparked unrest among party members and allied organisations, who took to the streets late Monday night. Protesters blocked the road in front of the hospital and set fires while chanting slogans demanding accountability and justice, alleging that his death was an act of murder.
Local authorities have called for calm while the investigation proceeds. The incident has raised political tensions in Chuadanga, highlighting the need for transparent inquiry and lawful accountability in operations involving civilian detainees.