Matihar police detained Hasibul Islam Hasib, joint general secretary of the Rajshahi University unit of Chhatra Dal, with seven Indian Tapentadol pills on Saturday evening. He was being held at Matihar police station, according to Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Golam Kabir, who confirmed the detention.

University unit Chhatra Dal president Sultan Ahmed Rahi said he learned of the matter through journalists. He said the organisation is committed to building a drug-free campus, but he was not yet sure whether the drugs were in Hasib's possession or belonged to his friends. Rahi said the organisation would take appropriate action if such allegations were established.

University proctor Professor Dr Mahbubur Rahman said the use, purchase and sale of drugs are punishable offences under Bangladesh's law. He said action would be taken against Hasib under prevailing laws because he was caught with drugs, and that the university administration had been informed. The police officer said further details would be provided later.