AL unit leader accused of torturing brick kiln workers in Bandarban

An Awami League unit leader allegedly ordered the torture of three brick-kiln workers in Sadar upazila of Bandarban as they demanded their arrears.

The victims are Abul Kalam, 32, Md Riaz, 30, and Md Rubel, 25, said Md Shahidul Islam Chowdhury, officer-in-charge of the Sadar police station.

A case was filed against Md Milon, owner of FBM Brick Field and also president of Bandarban Municipality ward-3 unit of Awami League, and 11 others with the station this morning, said the OC.

According to the case statement, at Milon's directive, the 11 others accused chained and then tortured the workers -- Kalam, Riaz and Rubel -- in the company office at Krykongpara on Sunday night after they demanded arrears from Milon, reports our Bandarban correspondent.

Police rescued the trio as the victims called the emergency hotline 999, added the statement.

OC Shahidul said they have arrested seven accused today and are trying to nab the rest, including Milon.

Contacted, Milon did not speak of his involvement and said, "It's an unfortunate and saddening incident."