Kamol Chakraborty:

The operation was carried out in Hossain Nagar, Ward No. 1 of Barahatiya Union, Lohagara, Chittagong after receiving information about illegal cutting of soil from a hill. Excavators hidden in the deep forest were seized while fleeing with the excavators on hearing of the raid and two persons were arrested from the spot and fined Rs 50,000.

The operation was conducted on Thursday, January 20 at 12 noon under the leadership of Upazila Assistant Commissioner and Executive Magistrate Md. Masud Rana. Lohagara police, Ansar members and land office staff assisted in the operation.

The identities of the two detainees were not immediately confirmed.

Upazila Assistant Commissioner and Executive Magistrate Md Masud Runner said the operation was carried out on the basis of secret information after receiving information that illegal soil was being cut from a hill in Hossain Nagar, Ward No. 1 of Barahatiya Union, Lohagara. While receiving the news of the raid, the excavator hidden in the deep forest was seized while fleeing with the excavator and two persons were arrested from the spot and fined Tk 50,000. Legal action has been taken against the detainees.

He further said that illegal cutting of soil from the hills is causing environmental catastrophe and there is a possibility of loss of quality goods due to landslides. Strict legal action will be taken against anyone involved in the cutting of hills and our campaign against these irregularities will continue in the public interest.

BD / KCB / CTG / 2:20