UNO attacked during protest at fuel pump in Panchagarh

Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Shuvra Kumar Basak came under attack while trying to restore order during fuel oil distribution at a filling station in Debiganj, Panchagarh. The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon at Messrs Jannatul Mawa Filling Station in Bhaulagachh union.

The attackers also beat an Ansar member assigned to the UNO's security and attempted to snatch his government-issued weapon. The injured Ansar member was later admitted to the upazila health complex.

According to reports, a long queue of motorcyclists had formed at the filling station to collect fuel oil. Station authorities reported that most of those in line lacked the required fuel cards, vehicle registration papers, and driving licences as per government directives. As a result, legitimate customers were unable to purchase fuel, leading to disorder. Unable to control the situation, the station authorities informed the UNO, who arrived at the scene around 12:30 pm.

Upon arrival, the UNO announced that those without fuel cards and valid documents must leave the line. Two individuals were fined Tk 500 each. Immediately after the fines, a procession of over a hundred people arrived from another direction and launched a sudden attack on the UNO and his team.

The attackers overpowered the Ansar member and tried to snatch his government-issued weapon. As the situation escalated, the UNO took shelter in a nearby house with the help of locals. Police from Debiganj Police Station later arrived at the scene, rescued him, and brought him safely to the upazila.

The UNO is currently undergoing treatment at the upazila health complex.

Debiganj Police Station Officer-in-Charge Selim Malek said the situation was quickly brought under control. "The situation is now normal. No complaint has been received so far. Legal action will be taken if any complaint is filed," he said.