Rangpur: Five members of the highway police in Rangpur were beaten by passengers of a bus on suspicion of extortion after stopping a vehicle on the Bishmail section of Pirganj upazila. A video of the incident that went viral on social media on Sunday shows.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the incident occurred around 9:00 am on March 19, but came to light only after the video circulated on social media, sparking discussion across the district. The policemen involved, including Sub-Inspector Shamidullah Sarker of the Bara Darga Highway Police, were withdrawn from duty on April 2 and attached to the office of the District Highway Police Superintendent.
Police sources revealed that traffic congestion caused by two overtaking long-distance buses led to a buildup of vehicles, which passengers misinterpreted as an attempt by police to extort money. An argument between passengers and police escalated into a clash, during which the officers were attacked. One policeman reportedly jumped into a nearby pond to save himself. Later, locals and other policemen came to control the situation and the injured were rescued.
Eyewitnesses mentioned that while allegations of bribes at the check post exist, no money was taken on the day of the incident. Authorities clarified that the clash was triggered by traffic congestion and passenger frustration ahead of Eid, not extortion. An investigation committee led by an Assistant Superintendent of Police has been formed, and five policemen involved have been temporarily withdrawn.
Meanwhile, police have filed a case against 60 to 70 unidentified individuals, including bus staff, for obstructing government work. Rangpur Highway Police Superintendent Abu Tayyab Shamsur Rahman stated that the matter is under their attention. ‘Action will be taken based on the committee’s report. We maintain zero tolerance against injustice. Any wrongdoing by police members will not be condoned,’ he said.