Staff Reporter :
Nezam Uddin, the manager of Sonali Bank in Ruma upazila, displayed remarkable bravery in the face of danger, attempting to protect the bank’s vault from being looted by Kuki-Chin militants, according to Rapid Action Battalion (RAB).
This information was shared by Khandaker Al Moin, director of RAB’s legal and media department, on Friday, following Nezam’s safe return to his family.
Commander Al Moin revealed that efforts are ongoing to identify the attackers, with the investigation including analysis of CCTV footage to ensure they are brought to justice.
On the night of April 2, a group of armed individuals stormed the Ruma upazila parishad office, disarmed the security personnel, and proceeded to rob the Sonali Bank, during which Nezam was abducted.
Nezam Uddin was released in Ruma town on the evening following two days of negotiations, as stated by RAB.
The release was achieved without harm to Nezam, attributed to “various pressures applied to the terrorists” by law enforcement.
RAB had mobilized several teams to secure the bank official’s release immediately after the incident on April 2.
RAB disclosed in a press statement that the rescued bank manager provided vital information regarding the militant attack and his subsequent ordeal.
To thwart the militants’ plans to loot the bank’s vault, Nezam claimed to be an official from the agriculture department.
Despite their efforts and demands for the vault’s key, the militants, dressed in military-like uniforms and holding Nezam and three others hostage, failed to breach the vault after Nezam’s refusal.
Nezam was then blindfolded and moved to a remote location, with the militants frequently changing their hideouts.
The militants eventually contacted Nezam’s family, explicitly warning them against seeking help from authorities.
However, RAB managed to locate them and exerted pressure that led to Nezam’s release.
RAB’s Khandaker Al Moin confirmed that Nezam was rescued unharmed and in good health without any ransom payment.
RAB Additional Director General (Operation) Mahbub formally handed Nezam over to his family.
The security forces’ operation to recover arms and ammunition continues, with Commander Al Moin asserting that the mission will persist until their objectives are achieved.
