Expatriate BNP leader’s anti-drug campaign gains momentum in Banshkhali

A social movement against drugs and gambling is sweeping through Banshkhali Upazila sparked by the initiative of an expatriate BNP leader.

Mohammad Omar Kazi, Vice-President of the Mozambique branch of the BNP has been organizing rallies and seminars across various villages since his return to Bangladesh two months ago.

His campaign has encouraged local residents to take oaths declaring their neighborhoods drug-free. In Saral Union and surrounding areas citizens are now using microphones to warn drug dealers and are actively collaborating with law enforcement.

Following this surge in public awareness Banshkhali police launched a "red alert" against narcotics and gambling. Several high-profile suspects including alleged drug kingpin Rashid Ahmed (alias Raishya Dakat), Tarek, Shefali Barua, and Dipayan Barua have been arrested.

"I saw drugs being sold in broad daylight destroying our youth," said Omar Kazi. "We organized these rallies to build a social movement. Drugs destroy families and the state; we must stand together to say no."

Local residents reported a significant decline in evening drug dens. "Where dealers once ruled, ordinary people are now hunting them down," said Matiur Rahman, a resident of Bailchhari. Police officials have pledged to continue their crackdown until the upazila is entirely drug-free.