Police have arrested 19 leaders and activists of the banned Chhatra League and Jubo League, whose activities are prohibited, in Netrokona over allegations that they were preparing for and taking part in flash processions in Kendua and Purbadhala upazilas.
They were arrested during separate drives in the two upazilas early today, said Hafizul Islam, additional superintendent of police, Netrokona.
Police said five members of Chhatra League were detained around 5:50am from Kendua-Netrokona highway near Itkhola area in Kendua while preparing for a procession.
The detainees were identified as Rakib Raihan, 42; Robin Mia, 27; Biplab Hasan, 27; Babu Mia, 29; and Mahmudul Hasan, 20.
Two motorcycles allegedly used by them were also seized.
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Photo: Courtesy
Meanwhile, police arrested 14 people in Purbadhala over allegations that they took part in a flash procession organised by members of Chhatra League.
According to police, several people gathered around 6:00am in front of a community clinic in Paboi area of Khalishaur union on the Shyamganj-Jaria road, to hold a procession. A village police member informed the police after learning about the gathering.
When police arrived at the scene, those present tried to flee in different directions on motorcycles.
Later, police from the Shyamganj Investigation Centre and Purbadhala Police Station conducted drives in different parts of the upazila and arrested 13 people. Based on information obtained during the investigation, another person was arrested from Gouripur in Mymensingh.
Police said those arrested include Maruf Hossain Munna, a member of Netrokona district unit Chhatra League, along with leaders and activists of Chhatra League and Jubo League at different levels.
Police said the flash procession was organised with the intention of disrupting public safety, damaging vehicles and property, and creating panic among people.
Later, SI Mohammad Taizul Islam of Purbadhala Police Station filed a case under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 2009, in connection with the incident.
The case names 25 individuals affiliated with Chhatra League, Jubo League and Awami League. Another 25 to 30 unnamed people have also been accused.
Purbadhala Police Station OC Md Abdullah Al Mamun said the arrested individuals have been sent to jail through the court and operations are ongoing to arrest the other accused in the case.
