Bangladesh’s Forest Department has filed two cases against 62 people, including leaders and activists of the BNP and affiliated organisations, over allegations of illegally cutting, stealing and selling trees from protected forests in Chunarughat, Habiganj. The cases concern Satchhari National Park and the Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary. One case was filed on Tuesday by Satchhari Wildlife Range officer Mobarak Hossain at Chunarughat police station, naming 20 accused under the Forest Act of 1927, amended in 2000.

According to the complaint, trees were allegedly cut and traded from Satchhari’s protected forest at different times between January 12, 2025 and May 15, 2026. Confidential information from intelligence agencies indicated the involvement of 20 people. Chunarughat Upazila Chhatra Dal member secretary Maruf Mia was named as the main accused, while several BNP, Jubo Dal, Sramik Dal and Krishak League figures were also listed.

A separate case naming 42 people was filed the same day by forest officer H M Ershad over alleged tree cutting and sales in Rema-Kalenga. Forest officials said the cases followed directives from the Prime Minister’s Office and the environment ministry. Divisional Forest Officer Abul Kalam said the department had adopted zero tolerance against tree theft. Wildlife activist Biswajit Pal urged investigators to ensure innocent people are not harassed.