Police have arrested Golam Saleh Monju Molla, former mayor of Banaripara municipality and former president of the Upazila Awami League in Barishal. He was detained late Saturday night from his residence in Ward No. 4 of Banaripara town. Authorities said he was shown arrested as an unidentified accused in an explosives and arson case filed by former Chhatradal leader Monir Sardar, and was sent to Barishal court on Sunday morning.

According to Banaripara Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md. Mojibur Rahman, Monju was arrested in connection with a pending political case. Following his arrest, local Awami League activists reportedly expressed fear of further detentions. Allegations have also surfaced that some Awami League members, including Monju, continue to move freely under the protection of influential BNP leaders in the area.

Monju Molla, a freedom fighter, is the younger brother of Golam Sarwar, founding editor of the national dailies Samakal and Jugantor.