Mohammad Sohel:
A new discussion has begun surrounding the alleged ‘Sarowar Syndicate’ in the Teknaf border area of Cox’s Bazar, alleging that it is using the name of the administration to spread influence, extortion and control drug smuggling. Local residents and various sources allege that the gang has been spreading influence in the area for a long time by pretending to be close to the administration, due to which panic prevails among the common people.
Locals claim that the members of the gang introduce themselves as close to influential people in the administration and show various kinds of intimidation. There are also allegations that if anyone protests or criticizes their activities, the administration threatens to harass or implicate them in false cases.
Locals say that the crime gang is becoming more reckless as effective action is not taken against the main masterminds involved in smuggling various types of drugs, including Yaba, in the border area. Although large consignments and carriers of Yaba are sometimes seized in law enforcement operations, according to allegations, the main planners and financiers remain undetected in many cases. Local conscious circles demand that not only the carriers but also the main masterminds, financiers and organizers involved in the entire network should be brought under the law to eradicate drugs. At the same time, they have called for strict monitoring so that no one can use the name of the administration to achieve personal interests or conduct criminal activities. A local resident said, “If someone uses the name of the administration to conduct a drug trade worth crores of taka, then it is a threat not only to law and order, but also to the entire society. We want the real truth to be revealed through an impartial investigation and exemplary punishment for the guilty.” Although attempts were made to contact accused Sarwar several times to get his statement on this matter, no response was received. If his statement is received in the future, it will be published appropriately. Meanwhile, no official statement has been received from the concerned law and order forces regarding the allegations. Locals demand that the true facts be revealed through an impartial investigation of the allegations and necessary legal action be taken.
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