After nine days in captivity, five students from the University of Chittagong (CU), who were abducted in Khagrachari, have been released, confirmed the Hill Students’ Council on Thursday evening.
Nipon Tripura, central president of the Hill Students’ Council (PCP), confirmed that the five CU students were released on Thursday, though the exact time and manner of their release remain unclear. Khagrachari Superintendent of Police Arefin Jewel stated that the authorities were not officially informed, but family members have confirmed their release.
In a press statement, the CU unit of the Hill Students’ Council also verified the release and expressed gratitude to all involved in securing the students’ freedom.
The students—Rishan Chakma, a PCP member; Aldrin Tripura and Maitrimoy Chakma from the Institute of Fine Arts; Dibbyo Chakma from the Department of Theatre; and Longgi Mro from the Department of Zoology—were reportedly abducted around 6:30 AM on April 16 from the Giriful area in Khagrachari Sadar.
The PCP had initially accused the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF) of the abduction, an allegation UPDF has consistently denied.
Following the incident, widespread protests erupted among students, progressive groups, and various student organizations at CU, demanding the students’ immediate release. The increasing pressure is believed to have contributed to the abductors releasing the students in phases.
The PCP CU unit extended heartfelt thanks to the university administration, Khagrachari district authorities, law enforcement agencies, and all individuals who played a role in the safe return of the abducted students.
LND/BG
