Police in northern Bangladesh have detained the Thakurgaon district chief of Jamaat-e-Islami after recovering a large amount of cash from his possession at Saidpur Airport, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
Belal Uddin was taken into custody at around 12:00 pm by officers from Saidpur Airport Police Station. Law enforcement authorities said approximately 50 lakh Tk was recovered during the operation, although the counting process was still underway at the time of reporting.
Officer-in-Charge Rezaul Karim stated that the detainee claimed the money was linked to his business operations. “Nearly 50 lakh Tk has been seized. The counting is ongoing. He says it is business-related funds,” he told reporters.
Shortly after being detained, Mr Uddin reportedly became unwell during questioning. Police said he was transferred by ambulance from the airport to Saidpur Hospital at approximately 1:00 pm for treatment.
In a video statement recorded following his detention, Mr Uddin said the total amount was closer to 60 lakh Tk. He maintained that the money was generated from legitimate business activities.
Mr Uddin also serves as a teacher at Salandar Islamia Kamil Madrasa and resides in the Hazipara area of Thakurgaon town.
Superintendent of Police Sheikh Zahidul Islam confirmed that the district Jamaat leader had been detained with a significant amount of cash and later hospitalised after falling ill during questioning. He said further information would be shared once preliminary inquiries are completed.
Authorities have not yet announced whether formal charges will be filed. Police say investigations are ongoing to determine the source and intended purpose of the seized funds.
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