Residents of Chailabunia village in Mirzagonj, Patuakhali, have accused former army member Ismail Hossain, also known as Liton, of land grabbing and excavating three-crop farmland to create a large pond. The report, published on July 28, 2026, said roughly two acres of farmland in Chailabunia mouza had been cut for the pond, with earthen embankments built on both sides.

Locals said the pond has obstructed water movement across about 20 acres of surrounding cropland, causing waterlogging and raising concerns about soil fertility and future agricultural output. They said about 10 families have been affected. Monir Hossain alleged that Ismail forcibly occupied their land and removed soil, while threatening him with death and false cases after he protested. Sultan Ahmed also alleged occupation of ancestral property.

Ismail denied the accusations, saying he prepared an enclosure on his own land for fish and vegetable cultivation. He said coconut and betel nut saplings were planted beside it and that no vegetation likely to harm neighboring land would be planted. Mirzagonj Upazila Nirbahi Officer Sheikh Rasel said a written complaint had been received and legal action would be taken following an investigation.