A case has been filed over allegations of assault, harassment and attempted kidnapping involving Bangladesh national cricketer Nayeem Hasan in Chattogram. In response, two police personnel, including a sub-inspector of Khulshi Police Station, have been temporarily withdrawn, while a source identified as Sohel has been arrested. A three-member investigation committee has been formed by the Chittagong Metropolitan Police (CMP).
Nayeem’s brother, Sabbir Alam, lodged the case with Khulshi Police Station on Saturday. The accused include Sub-Inspector Shafiqul Islam, Constable Russell and police source Sohel. The charges involve physical assault and attempted kidnapping.
CMP officials confirmed that legal action is underway against the arrested suspect, while departmental proceedings have been initiated against the police personnel concerned. A committee headed by a deputy commissioner has been tasked to submit its report within five working days.
Describing the incident, Nayeem Hasan alleged that he was stopped around 11:30 pm on Friday near the Lalkhan Bazar flyover while returning from Dhaka after playing in the Premier League. He said he was travelling in a CNG autorickshaw from the airport when the vehicle was intercepted and his documents were taken.
He claimed he was assaulted despite identifying himself as a national cricketer. "They grabbed me by the throat and said, 'Get in the car'… then they held me by the throat, beat me and abused me," he said, adding that an unidentified person also struck him with a pipe.
He further alleged that his belongings were not checked on the spot and were instead taken to the police station, where nothing was found after being searched overnight.
Describing his experience at Khulshi Police Station, he said, "I was very scared. I want a fair trial. If I do not stand against it today, then even if it happens to a common person tomorrow, no one will know." He also alleged that he was told to "keep your eyes down and talk" at the police station and questioned why he was subjected to physical force despite cooperating with law enforcement.
He further stated that about 100 to 120 people were present at the scene, adding that "if they were not there, the incident could have been different."
Police officials said the operation was conducted based on information regarding alleged smuggling involving a CNG autorickshaw. They added that the accuracy of the information is being verified, while procedural compliance in conducting the operation is also under investigation.
CMP Commissioner Hasan Mohammad Shawkat Ali confirmed that two police members have been suspended and an investigation committee formed. He said, "No concessions will be made," adding that those involved would not be given any leniency. He also confirmed that Sohel has been detained and departmental cases are underway.
Police sources said Sub-Inspector Monirul Islam provided intelligence input while on leave, alleging possible gold smuggling. Based on this information, the operation was conducted by SI Shafiqul Islam.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) expressed concern over the incident and demanded a fair investigation. In a statement, the board said it "strongly condemns this unwanted and indecent behaviour" and is in contact with Nayeem and his family. BCB Security Committee Chairman Syed Ibrahim Ahmed said, "What happened… is unacceptable in any way."
The Cricket Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) also condemned the incident, calling for strict action against those involved. It stated that Nayeem was physically assaulted near Lalkhan Bazar despite identifying himself as a national cricketer.
Senior cricketers also reacted strongly. Mushfiqur Rahim said the incident was "completely unacceptable" and demanded justice.
Taskin Ahmed called it a "shameful incident" and urged punishment for those responsible. T20 captain Liton Das said, "No citizen deserves such treatment," adding that he hoped for a fair investigation and early justice.
The case has triggered widespread concern over alleged misconduct by law enforcement agencies during field operations and the treatment of civilians during identity checks. Authorities have initiated investigations, suspensions and legal proceedings, while the incident has also raised broader questions about accountability and operational protocols within police action frameworks.
