Police officer attacked by mob at Patenga beach, 2 arrested

A police officer on duty was assaulted by a group of individuals near Charpara Ghat at Patenga Sea Beach late Friday night (28 February) after he attempted to prevent drug consumption in the area. 

The attackers also snatched his mobile phone, wallet, and wireless communication device.  

Following the incident, police conducted an overnight drive and arrested two individuals in connection with the assault.  

Mahmuda Begum, additional deputy commissioner (PR and Media) of Chattogram Metropolitan Police, confirmed the incident and told The Business Standard that police swiftly responded to the attack.  

"A case has been filed, and operations are ongoing to apprehend all those involved," she said, adding that further details will be provided soon.  

According to police sources, a group of local youths frequently gathers at Patenga Sea Beach to consume marijuana. Around 10pm on Friday, Sub-Inspector (SI) Yusuf Ali of Patenga Police Station, who was on patrol duty, noticed some youths engaging in drug use. Upon questioning them, they admitted their wrongdoing, apologised, and were let off with a warning.  

However, eyewitnesses reported that shortly after the initial encounter, the same group returned with reinforcements. As SI Yusuf was heading toward his patrol vehicle, they confronted him, accused him of being an impostor, and demanded to see his identification. Before he could respond, the mob launched a sudden and violent attack.  

A video of the incident shows SI Yusuf in distress, stating that his belongings had been taken. Visible red marks on his body indicated injuries from the assault. In the footage, he can be heard crying out, "I have lost everything, my dignity is gone."  

At one point in the video, some unidentified individuals were seen returning a mobile phone to SI Yusuf's pocket. The officer could not be contacted for further details as his phone remained switched off.  

SI Yusuf Ali, a member of the 36th batch of police officers, was previously with the River Police before being transferred to Patenga Police Station on 20 February. As a newcomer to the area, he was unfamiliar with local criminal groups. Colleagues described him as a simple and honest officer.