Hobiganj is witnessing an alarming rise in teenage gang activity, as youths aged between 15 and 20 become increasingly involved in public displays of violence, harassment of female students, substance abuse, theft, and other criminal activities. The surge has left parents, local business owners, and ordinary residents deeply concerned for their safety.
Police sources report that a recent operation led to the arrest of three gang members. However, residents across the district are calling for more decisive government action to dismantle these gangs and restore public confidence.
Public Displays of Weapons
In recent weeks, a group of 20–25 teenagers staged open demonstrations in areas including Rajnagar, the Women’s College, and the Girls’ High School, brandishing sharp knives and machetes. The group even recorded videos of their armed activities, which quickly circulated on social media, sparking widespread alarm.
Similarly, in Dhuliakhal BSC Industrial Zone on the outskirts of the city, 10–12 gang members have reportedly carried out motorbike “showdowns” with makeshift weapons. Residents describe how the teenagers ride noisily through streets, creating terror among female students and working women.
Experts note that because these perpetrators are under 18, authorities often face limitations in imposing strict legal action, a loophole which has emboldened them. Many also cite the lack of parental guidance and social values as contributing factors to the rise in juvenile crime.
In addition to public intimidation, gangs have been implicated in mobile phone thefts and robberies across neighbourhoods. Their presence near schools, colleges, and madrasas, as well as their roaming in crowded areas such as railway stations and hospital gates, has become a regular source of fear.
Recent Incidents
| Date | Location | Incident | Casualties/Arrests |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 Jan | Murarband, Chunarughat | Gang disrupted fair at 120 Auliya Mazar; assaulted visitors | 10 injured |
| 24 Feb | Dhuliakhal | Gang ambushed Abu Sufi M. Golam Rahman and son on e-bike | Victims beaten; assailants fled |
| 1 Mar | Mohanpur Bypass Road | Rival gangs clashed with weapons during Tarabi prayer | 3 arrested; others escaped |
Police identified the arrested youths as Rakib (son of the late Chondu Mia, Mashulia), Rahim (son of Selim Mia, Anantapur), and Nur Ali (son of Abdul Qadir, Umedangar).
Administrative Response
Authorities have directed all local police stations to take stringent action against teenage gangs. Superintendent of Police Mst. Yasmin Khatun confirmed that law enforcement is actively identifying gang members, collecting information, and preparing for legal proceedings.
Former Hobiganj Press Club president Harunur Rashid Chowdhury commented that under-age offenders exploit legal loopholes, often starting with minor offences such as smoking before escalating to drugs, theft, and robbery. Hobiganj Juvenile Court Public Prosecutor Hafizul Islam added that parental negligence and peer influence are key factors leading teenagers astray.
Police and community leaders continue to emphasise vigilance, targeted enforcement, and public awareness campaigns to curb the growing menace of juvenile gang violence in Hobiganj.