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Bangladesh Cricketer Nayeem Hasan Alleges Police Assault in Chattogram

Bangladesh cricketer Nayeem Hasan has accused local police of harassment and assault in Chattogram. After returning from a cricket match, he claims he was stopped by police, who escalated the situation despite his cooperation. The incident has raised concerns within the cricket community, especially with Nayeem set to represent Bangladesh in an upcoming Test series against Zimbabwe. Local authorities have promised a thorough investigation into the allegations, ensuring justice for the player. This incident highlights ongoing issues regarding police conduct and athlete treatment in Bangladesh.
 

Incident Reported by Nayeem Hasan

File image of Bangladesh spinner Nayeem(Photo: @arnuX05/X)


Chattogram, June 13: Nayeem Hasan, the off-spinner for the Bangladesh Test team, has reported an incident of harassment and assault involving law enforcement officials in his hometown of Chattogram on Saturday night. Local police have committed to conducting a thorough investigation into the matter.


After being released from police custody, Nayeem appeared visibly shaken as he recounted the events of that night. He had just returned home after participating in the final match of the Premier League for Prime Bank Cricket Club, which is Bangladesh's premier List A competition.


According to Nayeem, the incident unfolded late at night when he was returning from the airport. He stated, "My Premier League game was ongoing, and my flight was delayed. I was traveling in a CNG when, around 11:25 PM, police stopped my vehicle under the Lankan Bazar flyover and requested the driver's documents."


Initially, Nayeem was cooperative, even offering to let the police check his bags. He recounted, "I told the police, 'If necessary, you can check my bag,' but they responded aggressively, grabbing me by the throat and ordering me into their vehicle."


As he sought clarification on the situation, Nayeem claims the situation escalated. "I asked, 'Why are you grabbing me by the throat?' but they pushed me away, assaulted me, and hurled insults at me," he explained.


The 25-year-old cricketer noted that his status as a national athlete seemed to have no impact during the initial confrontation. "I informed them that I represent the country in Test matches, but they paid little attention. It was only after receiving phone calls about my identity that their demeanor changed," he added.


This incident has sparked significant discussion within Bangladesh's cricket community, particularly as Nayeem is set to play for his country in the upcoming Test series against Zimbabwe.


In response to these allegations, Amirul Islam, the Deputy Police Commissioner (North) of Chattogram Metropolitan Police, assured that a comprehensive investigation is underway. He stated that appropriate action would be taken against any officers found culpable.


"We assure you that Nayeem will receive justice," Amirul told the media. "We are looking into the matter, and those responsible will face consequences, as we maintain a zero-tolerance policy regarding such issues, given the importance of police protocol and our public image," he added.