Abdullah Bhutto, a local Jubo Dal leader in Cox’s Bazar’s Ramu upazila, has come under fire for allegedly running a reign of terror through extortion, intimidation, and violence under the cover of political affiliation. Bhutto, the convenor of South Mithachhari Union Jubo Dal, is accused of chasing and firing gunshots at a local resident in a crowded market after the latter complained to the army about his alleged crimes.
Following widespread media coverage of the incident, the Ramu upazila unit of Jubo Dal issued a show-cause notice to Bhutto. The official statement, signed by convenor Zahir Alam and member secretary Touhidul Islam, stated that Bhutto had violated party discipline and directives, amounting to insubordination. A probe has been launched based on media reports and victim statements, and Bhutto has been asked to appear before the convening committee within three days and provide a written explanation.
According to local sources, the incident took place around 8:30pm on Friday at South Mithachhari market, where Bhutto and his associates reportedly fired two rounds targeting a rival. Though no one was hurt, the gunfire sparked panic in the area. Since then, residents say they have been living in fear.
In a written complaint filed at Ramu police station, a local resident named Ahmed Ullah alleged that Bhutto had become hostile after Ahmed supported a rival candidate, Dudu Mia, in the last Union Parishad election. Bhutto allegedly demanded Tk 1 lakh in extortion and threatened police harassment if the amount was not paid. The situation escalated when Ahmed’s brother, Salamat Ullah, went to the market on Friday evening. Bhutto reportedly chased him with a firearm. Though Salamat managed to flee, Bhutto allegedly fired at family members who came to his aid. Local traders and eyewitnesses corroborated the account.
Several residents alleged that since 5 August, Bhutto has tightened his grip over the area, collecting regular payments from local businesses and wealthy individuals. One businessman, Shafi Alam, said Bhutto claimed to have backing from ruling party leaders and demanded Tk 1 lakh from him. When Alam refused, Bhutto threatened to implicate him in a murder case. “I had to pay out of fear. I have a family—I can’t protest,” he said.
Other residents said Bhutto extorted money from them even though they were not involved in politics, threatening legal trouble if they didn’t comply. Locals claimed Bhutto had turned South Mithachhari into his personal fiefdom, engaging in illegal sand extraction, drug trafficking, extortion, and openly brandishing firearms. He reportedly installed CCTV cameras throughout the area and carries walkie-talkies typically used by law enforcement to monitor residents’ movements.
Elderly residents recalled that Bhutto once occupied a centuries-old religious site and organised gambling events under the guise of traditional wrestling festivals, drawing widespread resentment. Jubo Dal activists alleged that Bhutto often cited his links to a former MP and a central Jubo Dal leader’s personal secretary to justify his actions. They accused him of hurting religious sentiments, grabbing land, and abusing party affiliation for personal gain.
“Bhutto is no longer a political leader—he is now the godfather of this region,” said one local activist.
Bhutto has denied all the allegations, dismissing them as politically motivated and baseless, and accused his rivals of attempting to smear his reputation. However, Ramu upazila Jubo Dal convenor Zahir Alam confirmed that most of the allegations against Bhutto were found to be true. “Despite being summoned, he has not appeared. The party will not carry the burden of anyone misusing its name. Action will be taken soon, and expulsion is being considered in line with central instructions,” he said.