173 sent to court, 451 released in Cumilla anti-teen gang drive
Photo: Agamir Somoy
Out of 624 individuals detained during a police crackdown on youth gangs and delinquents in Cumilla, 173 have been shown arrested in various cases and sent to court. Meanwhile, 451 individuals were released after signing personal bond undertakings.
This process was completed on Thursday (September 24) afternoon following day-long verification and interrogation of the detainees. The matter was confirmed by Cumilla Additional Superintendent of Police, Md. Lutfar Rahman.
Earlier on Wednesday night, police launched simultaneous raids across 18 police stations in the district under the leadership of Cumilla Superintendent of Police Md. Anisuzzaman. A total of 624 people were detained during the overnight operation, which covered several areas, including the Cumilla University campus area.
Police said the detainees included members of teen gangs, muggers, drug users, substance abusers, and individuals involved in drug peddling.
Following the day-long verification and questioning, legal action was taken against 173 individuals under various charges, including drug abuse, regular criminal cases, mobile court proceedings, involvement in banned organizations, and outstanding court warrants. They were charged in respective cases and presented before the court. On the other hand, 451 people were handed over to their families upon signing undertakings.
Police and local sources indicated that discussions surrounding teen gang activities in the district gained fresh momentum following the murder of Apratim, the 13-year-old son of Cumilla University faculty member Dr. Nahida Begum. In response to this homicide, the special drive against youth gangs and rowdy youths was executed.
Md. Lutfur Rahman, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Burichang Police Station, mentioned that 62 people were detained in his jurisdiction. After verification, they were handed over to their families' custody for future reformation.
A parent from Bakshimul village in Burichang, who came to receive his child, stated that this police action serves as a message for juvenile offenders and their families. He added that parents and responsible family members need to maintain greater vigilance so that children do not stray off course in the future.
Speaking on Thursday, Comilla Superintendent of Police Md. Anisuzzaman said, "Our operation is a message to the juvenile offenders concerned and their families. Legal action has been taken against the actual criminals apprehended during the drive."
He further added, "Operations of this nature will continue. We seek the cooperation of all citizens in the district toward this effort."
