Police arrested a man posing as a Pabna District Jubo Dal leader along with two stolen cows during a raid in Komarpur Simanta Bazar, Dogachhi Union, Pabna Sadar Upazila on Friday around 8 pm.
The arrested man, Shariful Islam son of the late Ismail Gundi from Char Sadipur Union in Kumarkhali Upazila, Kushtia had reportedly built influence in the area for a long time by falsely claiming leadership in Pabna Jubo Dal.
Acting on complaints and confidential tips from locals, police raided a party office in Komarpur Simanta Bazar where stolen cows were believed to be hidden. They recovered two cows worth an estimated three lakh taka from a secret room beneath the office.
Residents alleged the office had long been used as a front for criminal activity, including storing stolen items such as cell machines, submersible pumps and tube wells. They further claimed that since August 5, Shariful Islam had been involved in drug dealing, theft, robbery, extortion and land grabbing under the patronage of local party figures despite Jubo Dal leaders being informed and taking no action.
Following his arrest photos and videos surfaced on social media showing Shariful with various Jubo Dal and BNP leaders at party events.
Pabna District Jubo Dal Member Secretary Monir Hossain confirmed knowing Shariful saying he had attended several programs but was not a formal committee member. He called for strict legal action against anyone misusing the party's identity for criminal purposes.
Pabna Sadar Police OC Tariqul Islam said a case is being processed, with investigations underway to identify the cows' owner and any accomplices. Shariful was sent to jail through court on Saturday.
