Expat Accused of Financing Vehicle Arson and Vandalism; 156 Named in Case

An expatriate, Mizanur Rahman, has been accused of providing financial support for an incident of arson and vandalism targeting vehicles in Chakaria upazila of Cox’s Bazar. A case filed over the incident names 156 individuals as accused, along with 100 to 200 unidentified persons.

According to sources, the incident occurred around 8:30 pm on November 3, 2024, on the Matamuhuri Bridge in Chakaria upazila, where several vehicles were set on fire and vandalized. Eyewitnesses said that some leaders and activists of the local Chhatra League allegedly attacked 10 to 15 vehicles, causing extensive damage.

Following the incident, on November 9, a victim named Jasim Uddin filed a case with Chakaria Police Station under Section 154 of the Penal Code. The case lists 156 named accused and 100 to 200 unidentified individuals. Expatriate Mizanur Rahman has been listed as the 20th accused in the case, with allegations that he financed the attack.

Local sources claim that Mizanur Rahman has been accused in several other incidents in the area. In response to these allegations, some local leaders and activists have reportedly declared him unwelcome in the locality.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a pro-government leader alleged that Mizanur Rahman, while living abroad, provides financial support for various incidents and that attacks and acts of vandalism in the area have been carried out with his funding.

However, no statement from the accused, Mizanur Rahman, could be obtained regarding the allegations.