Police in Rangamati have detained Ongsuichain Chowdhury, a veteran leader of the Bangladesh Awami League, in connection with an ongoing investigation under the country’s Anti-Terrorism Act. The arrest was executed during a targeted operation conducted by Kotwali Police Station at around 4:00 pm on Sunday, 26 July.
Acting on a specific tip-off, law enforcement officers intercepted Mr Chowdhury in the Happy-r Mor area, a busy junction adjacent to the Court Building in the heart of Rangamati town. Confirming the development, Mohammad Jasim Uddin, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Rangamati Kotwali Police Station, stated that the operation was carried out smoothly. Following his apprehension, Mr Chowdhury was presented before a magistrate’s court and subsequently remanded to prison, pending further judicial proceedings.
Police representatives disclosed that the veteran politician faces charges under anti-terrorism laws, alongside various historical allegations. Authorities noted that the preemptive legal action was deemed necessary to prevent potential deterioration of law and order within the district, amidst ongoing efforts to maintain security across the region.
Local Standing and Political Legacy
Mr Chowdhury is a prominent figure in regional politics, having dedicated several decades to public office in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. He has long served as the President of the Kaptai Upazila Awami League and previously held the office of Kaptai Upazila Parishad Chairman. In addition to his upazila-level responsibilities, he holds an active portfolio as a member of the Rangamati District Awami League executive committee.
Reports from local sources indicate that this detention is part of a broader pattern of legal scrutiny surrounding the politician. Mr Chowdhury had previously been arrested on separate charges and served time in custody before obtaining release. Over the years, his political involvement and administrative tenure have been subject to periodic investigation regarding public safety compliance and political unrest. Law enforcement agencies continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure public peace remains intact.