Six UPDF Members Arrested in Bandarban Over Extortion Allegations

PNN Reporter, Bandarban: Six members of the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF - Democratic) have been arrested by the Bangladesh Army on charges of involvement in extortion activities in Bandarban. The arrests took place on Tuesday (24 June) during raids at multiple locations across the district. The detainees were later handed over to the local police.

According to police sources, the army detained the six alleged hill-based militants during special operations targeting extortion networks in different areas of Bandarban. After preliminary interrogation, the suspects were formally transferred to Bandarban Sadar Police Station, and extortion cases have been filed against them.

There are specific allegations that these UPDF (Democratic) members were stopping vehicles and collecting money in the Nilachal-Boruar Tek-Milonchhari area of Bandarban town. The army reportedly caught them red-handed during a targeted operation.

Masud Parvez, Officer-in-Charge of Bandarban Sadar Police Station, confirmed:

“The army handed over six members of UPDF (Democratic) to our custody. Legal action has been taken under extortion charges.”

This arrest is seen as part of an ongoing effort by law enforcement to curb extortion and ensure security in the Chittagong Hill Tracts region.