MOHAMMAD MOINUDDIN
Staff Reporter | AdChannel24.com
Publication Date:16 October 2026
Several forest department officials and employees were reportedly injured in an alleged attack during an operation to reclaim illegally occupied government forestland in Rangunia, Chattogram. According to the Forest Department, those injured included Rangunia Range Officer Meheraj Uddin. The incident took place on Thursday, October 15, in the Aviary and Eco Park area under the Kodala Beat of Rangunia Range.
According to information provided by the Forest Department, a special eviction drive was launched to recover government forestland from illegal occupation. During the initial phase of the operation, two illegally constructed houses and surrounding fencing beside the parking area were removed. However, when the team moved to remove other unauthorized structures built on the picnic spot inside the eco-park, the operation encountered resistance.
In a press release, the Forest Department stated that the eviction drive was temporarily suspended after one house had been removed as the situation became complicated. Later, the Assistant Commissioner (Land) arrived at the scene. At that time, Range Officer Meheraj Uddin was discussing the situation with the land administration official.
The Forest Department alleged that, while the discussion was underway, a group of approximately 200 to 250 people gathered under the leadership of several individuals and attacked forest department officials and employees. Several forest personnel, including the range officer, reportedly sustained injuries in the incident.
In its press release, the department named Ahmed, also known as Ahmadul Haque; Mahbub, also known as Pochaiya; Md. Faruk; Md. Hossain; Anwar; and Babul among those allegedly leading the attack. The department further claimed that several of the individuals had previously faced multiple cases under forest laws. However, the allegations and the current status of the cases need to be independently verified. Statements from the individuals concerned were not included in the information provided by the department.
The Forest Department expressed concern over the alleged attack on officials who were carrying out their government duties. It also stated that operations to recover illegally occupied forestland would continue.
According to the press release, preparations were underway to file a case and take legal action against those allegedly involved in the incident. Further details regarding the number of injured personnel, their current medical conditions and the subsequent progress of the investigation were not provided in the available information.
The recovery of government forestland and the protection of natural resources remain important responsibilities for the relevant authorities. However, maintaining law and order during eviction operations and ensuring the safety of government employees are also essential.
The incident in Rangunia has raised questions about the challenges faced by forest officials while carrying out eviction drives. A fair investigation, the publication of verified information about the injured personnel and appropriate legal action, where warranted, will be important in determining the facts surrounding the incident.
