Two Arrested With Tapentadol

In Rangpur, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has arrested two alleged drug traders and seized a large consignment of Tapentadol tablets valued at approximately BDT 1.3 million (thirteen and a half lakh taka) during a targeted operation.

According to a press release issued by RAB-13 Headquarters on Saturday morning (18 April), the operation was conducted on Friday in the Sahabazpur Lahirihaat market area under Chandanpat Union of Rangpur Sadar Upazila. The action was taken following intelligence reports regarding illicit drug activity in the locality.

RAB stated that during the operation, a team intercepted two individuals who were standing suspiciously on the Rangpur–Badarganj paved road. Upon searching them, officers recovered 6,800 Tapentadol tablets from a bag in their possession.

Tapentadol is a potent analgesic medication used for the management of moderate to severe pain. However, law enforcement agencies have increasingly reported its misuse as an intoxicating substance in several regions.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Parvez Hossain (33), son of Bablu Hossain from Notun Bazar area of Parbatipur upazila in Dinajpur district, and Md. Asif (36), son of Jinal Sheikh. Preliminary findings suggest that both individuals have been involved in drug trafficking activities for an extended period.

RAB officials further stated during initial interrogation that the detainees were active members of an organised drug trafficking network. They reportedly collected Tapentadol tablets from various sources and distributed them across Rangpur and neighbouring districts. The substances were allegedly targeted towards young consumers.

Local residents informed law enforcement that the Lahirihaat market area has long been used as a transit point for drug-related activities. They also expressed that regular enforcement drives could help reduce such illegal operations in the area.

A senior assistant director of RAB-13, Bipul Kumar Ghoswami, confirmed in the press briefing that legal proceedings under the Narcotics Control Act are being prepared against the arrested individuals. He further added that operations will continue to identify and apprehend other members associated with the same network.

Summary of the incident

Authorities have reiterated that Tapentadol, while a regulated pharmaceutical product, has been increasingly misused in illicit drug distribution channels, prompting heightened surveillance and enforcement actions across affected regions.