Authorities at Saidpur Airport have arrested Belal Uddin, the district chief of Jamaat-e-Islami in Thakurgaon, in possession of a substantial sum of cash. Preliminary estimates indicate the amount to be at least 50 lakh Bangladeshi Taka. The arrest has raised significant attention, particularly given its timing ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Elections scheduled for 12 February.
Nilphamari Superintendent of Police, Sheikh Zahidul Islam PPM, confirmed the arrest and stated that the seized money will be counted under official supervision using counting machines to ensure accuracy. Speaking to Jugantor over the phone, Zahidul Islam said that Belal Uddin is currently in police custody at the airport. During preliminary questioning, the detainee reportedly acknowledged possessing approximately 50 lakh Taka.
A detailed tally of the confiscated cash is expected to be conducted in the presence of media representatives shortly, after which legal procedures will be formally initiated. Police have emphasised that all actions are being taken strictly according to the law.
The arrest of a prominent political figure with such a large sum of money has drawn considerable public attention, particularly given its proximity to the national elections. Observers note that incidents involving high-value cash seizures often trigger debate about electoral financing and the influence of illicit funds on political campaigns. The timing of this arrest—just a day before the official start of election activities—has prompted mixed reactions among the public and political analysts alike.
Key Details of the Arrest:
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Detainee Name | Belal Uddin |
| Position | Thakurgaon District Chief, Jamaat-e-Islami |
| Location of Arrest | Saidpur Airport |
| Estimated Cash Seized | Approximately 50 lakh Bangladeshi Taka |
| Current Custody | Police custody at Saidpur Airport |
| Election Context | 13th National Parliamentary Election, 12 Feb |
| Next Steps | Cash counting in media presence; legal proceedings to follow |
Authorities have assured the public that a transparent investigation will follow and that no individual, regardless of political position, is above the law. The incident underscores ongoing concerns about the circulation of large sums of unaccounted cash in the political sphere, especially during critical election periods.
Further updates are expected as police complete the cash counting and proceed with formal charges.