Police in Chattogram’s Halishahar area faced a prolonged standoff on Friday while attempting to arrest a known robbery suspect. The incident began around noon near the Skyview Tower in the Bashundhara Residential Area, where the suspect, identified as Md. Rubel, fled from police and jumped into a muddy ditch. Despite repeated efforts by police and the Fire Service, Rubel remained trapped for nearly five hours, brandishing a machete to deter arrest.

According to local residents, Rubel’s wife handed him the weapon under an umbrella while police were present. Witnesses said Rubel and his family are involved in drug trading and that he has multiple criminal cases, including robbery and theft. Police officials confirmed his criminal background and said he threatened to harm himself if approached.

Authorities indicated that further operations may be launched later to apprehend Rubel, as immediate arrest attempts were unsuccessful due to safety concerns and the unstable muddy terrain.