7 AL associate body members detained in Barishal

Family members of the detainees claimed they were attending a Kojagari Lakshmi Puja feast at the house, though police have not provided specific details regarding the grounds for their detention.

The detentions took place on Sunday late afternoon (October 25) at the residence of Saikat Guha Picklu, former chairman of Mahilara Union Parishad and joint general secretary of the upazila Awami League unit.

The detained individuals have been identified as Salil Guha Pintu (former Jubo League member and younger brother of Saikat Guha Picklu), Mohibul Alam Khokon, Masum Sardar (former president of Gournadi Municipality Ward 9 Chhatra League), Mithun Haldar, Waskurni Akon, and Palash Howlader. The identity of the seventh detainee could not be immediately confirmed.

Former UP Chairman Saikat Guha Picklu stated that his family was hosting a Kojagari Lakshmi Puja gathering at their residence, to which several well-wishers had been invited.

He alleged that ahead of Sunday evening, a group of local BNP activists arrived at the residence, created a chaotic situation, and subsequently handed over his younger brother and six guests to the police.

Gournadi Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Tariq Hasan Russel confirmed the detentions, stating that legal proceedings against the individuals are underway and they will be produced before court on Monday morning.