Seven-year-old Bappi, who was abducted from Naikhyangchhari area of Bandarban, remains in captivity for the third consecutive day in the hills of Chittagong Division, with kidnappers demanding a ransom of Tk 6 lakh for the child’s release.
Police said operations are underway to trace the whereabouts of Bappi, son of a Saudi expatriate Sabul Kader.
Additional Superintendent of Police Abdul Karim told Times of Bangladesh, “As the abduction site is a remote area bordering Myanmar, we are maintaining highest caution in conducting rescue operation.”
According to local sources, the child was abducted on July 28, 2025, from a village near the Bandarbans area. The family of the victim has reported the matter to the authorities, and efforts to locate the child and negotiate with the kidnappers are ongoing.
Sources within the law enforcement agencies have revealed that the kidnappers made the ransom demand via phone on July 29, threatening to harm the child if their demands are not met.
Local police, along with specialized forces, have been deployed to investigate the case and track down the culprits. Police have also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
“We are working closely with local authorities and the family to secure the safe release of the child. We are also investigating all possible leads,” said a police spokesperson.
The child’s family, while deeply distressed, has expressed their hope for a peaceful resolution, though they have not commented publicly on whether they intend to pay the ransom.
The case has drawn significant attention, with many locals expressing concern over the rising number of abductions in the region, especially involving children. This is the third such incident in the area within the past month.The abduction of the child again highlighted the vulnerable security situation in the hills.
On July 4, two members of the armed group Kuki-Chin National Army (KNA), including a commander, were killed in a security operation in the remote hills of Ruma.
Several weapons and military equipment were recovered during the raid.
A separate raid on a hideout of the anti-peace accord group United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF-Prasit) in Baghaichhari, Rangamati, uncovered firearms and ammunition.
Amid these developments, the child abduction in Naikhyangchhari has caused significant concern among security officials.
According to reports, on the night of July 29, armed and masked assailants abducted Bappi from his home in Rangajhiri area of Baishari Union in Naikhyangchhari.
Family members have alleged that the kidnappers initially demanded Tk 1 million in ransom.
Additional SP Abdul Karim added, “Bringing the child back unharmed and in good health is a major challenge.”