By Staff Correspondent
Sylhet, Bangladesh | Special Report | 22/05/2026
A member of Bangladesh’s Rapid Action Battalion (RAB-9) was killed after being stabbed during an attempt to stop a suspected drug dealer in Sylhet city on Friday afternoon, authorities said.
The incident took place around 12:15 PM near Kotwali Model Police Station in the Kin Bridge area of Sylhet, a busy part of the city known for heavy public movement.
The deceased officer was identified as Imon Acharya, a constable serving with RAB-9.
According to preliminary reports, a police patrol team had launched a chase after spotting several alleged drug dealers openly consuming and selling narcotics in the area.
As officers moved in, members of the group reportedly fled in different directions.
One suspect, identified as Asadul Alam Bappi, allegedly attempted to escape through the Topkhana road area. At that moment, RAB constable Imon Acharya was reportedly walking near the Sylhet Divisional Forest Officer’s office when he noticed the fleeing suspect and tried to stop him.
Authorities said the suspect then allegedly attacked the RAB member with a knife, striking him on the left side of the chest.
The officer collapsed on the spot in critical condition.
He was immediately rushed to Sylhet Osmani Medical College Hospital, where doctors later declared him dead at around 1:30 PM.
Police confirmed that the accused, Asadul Alam Bappi, was arrested shortly after the incident.
The killing has sparked shock and anger among law enforcement personnel and residents, with many expressing concern over the increasing boldness of criminal groups operating in urban areas.
Officials said an investigation is underway, and legal proceedings against the accused are being prepared.
The death of the RAB constable has also renewed discussion about the dangers faced by frontline security personnel during anti-narcotics operations across Bangladesh.
