Two Youth League Leaders Shot in Cox’s Bazar Attack

Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh: In a brazen late-night attack, two active leaders of the Bangladesh Jubo Dal were shot by unidentified assailants in the Uttaran Residential Area of Cox’s Bazar city. The attackers reportedly arrived on a motorcycle, wearing helmets, fired multiple shots, and fled the scene. The incident occurred on Tuesday, 9 December, around 10:30 PM.

The victims, Saiful Islam (35) and Mohammad Faruk (34), both residents of the Larapara area, were seriously injured and rushed by locals to Cox’s Bazar District Sadar Hospital. Due to the severity of their injuries, they were subsequently transferred to Chittagong for advanced medical treatment.

Speaking at the hospital, Azizul Haque Sohel, President of the Cox’s Bazar Municipal Jubo Dal, stated:

“Saiful and Faruk are both actively involved in Jubo Dal politics. We demand that the perpetrators of this attack be identified immediately and brought to justice.”

Possible Motive and Historical Context

Local residents suggest that the attack may have roots in long-standing family rivalries and past incidents of violence. In January 2023, Saiful’s brother, Saidul, and cousin, Kaiser, were killed following a dispute during a badminton game. Those involved were reportedly known as Saiful’s political and local adversaries, raising suspicions that this latest attack may be an extension of previous conflicts.

Confirming the incident, Officer-in-Charge Sami Uddin of Cox’s Bazar Sadar Model Police Station said:

“We have already begun investigating the case to ascertain the motive and identify the individuals responsible. Once identified, strict legal action will be taken against the perpetrators.”

The attack has raised concerns among local political circles and residents regarding security risks for politically active youth in the region. Observers note that political tensions in Cox’s Bazar have occasionally escalated into targeted violence, making vigilance and rapid response by law enforcement crucial.

Authorities have called for heightened vigilance and community cooperation to prevent similar attacks, emphasising the need to ensure the safety of political activists in Cox’s Bazar. The investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement committed to swift justice.