In a joint operation led by the Bangladesh Army, notorious criminal Shaheen and two close associates were arrested in Cox’s Bazar on Thursday morning. The raid led to the recovery of firearms, ammunition, yaba tablets, and sharp weapons. Shaheen faces over 20 criminal cases, including murder and robbery. Previously arrested in 2023, he had resumed criminal activities after securing bail. The army acted on specific intelligence, and despite resistance, successfully detained the suspects without any casualties.

Rajshahi division has banned mango trading by the traditional munni weight unit, mandating all transactions be done by kilogram from June 6. The move aims to stop commission agents who pay farmers less by manipulating weights between 42 to 55 kg per munni, while paying only for 40 kg. Farmers, traders, and officials agreed that trading by kilogram will ensure fair pricing and prevent financial losses. The decision will be implemented across all districts and supported by possible legal enforcement.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s Tejgaon Division conducted a special crackdown across six police station areas, arresting 62 individuals involved in various crimes including professional snatching, drug trafficking, theft, and terrorism. The operation was carried out under the supervision of senior police officials and aimed to control crime in the capital. The arrested suspects include habitual offenders, ongoing case accused, and wanted criminals. All detainees have been sent to court for further legal proceedings.

To commemorate the 44th death anniversary of former President Ziaur Rahman, BNP leaders organized a prayer gathering and distributed Eid gifts to over 300 underprivileged families in Sonargaon, Narayanganj. The initiative was led by freedom fighter and former Youth Development Director General SM Waliur Rahman Apel. Several BNP-affiliated leaders and former student activists attended the event. Apel highlighted Ziaur Rahman’s contributions to employment and development, emphasizing the relevance of his ideals in today’s political landscape.

Gold prices have been increased in Bangladesh, as announced by the Bangladesh Jewellers’ Association. The hike, effective from Friday, was decided after reviewing the rise in pure gold prices in the local market. The price of 22-carat hallmarked gold has risen to Tk 14,775 per gram. Meanwhile, ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, gold prices in Dubai also showed a slight increase. The rate of 24-carat gold reached 406 dirhams per gram, with similar upward trends seen in 22, 21, and 18-carat categories.

Renowned farmer Sohag Mridha from Patuakhali is traveling to Dhaka with his prized Friesian bull named ‘Kalo Manik’ to present it as a gift to BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. The bull, weighing 35 maunds and measuring 10 feet long, has become popular locally for its shiny black coat. Accompanied by a colorful procession, Sohag and nearly fifty supporters are making their way to Dhaka, hoping their leader will accept this heartfelt gift symbolizing deep respect and loyalty.

A 63-year-old widow, Morium Begum, from Uttar Anontoram village in Pirgacha, Rangpur, has filed a complaint accusing a local man, Bulu Master, of trying to seize her remaining 5 percent inherited land. Morium had sold 28 percent of her 33 percent ancestral land to Bulu Master, but he allegedly refuses to hand over the rest. Despite repeated requests, he reportedly abused and threatened her. Police have confirmed initial findings and are working toward resolving the issue.

Muhammad Fauzul Karim Khan, Road Transport and Railway Advisor, stated that despite some limitations, this year’s Eid travel has been comfortable with no passenger complaints about hardships. He highlighted strict monitoring against ticketless travel and enhanced security at Kamalapur Railway Station. Roof travel on trains was discouraged, though some leniency was allowed for humanitarian reasons. Additionally, mobile courts intensified checks on road fares, resulting in a 5,000-taka fine on a Lal Shobuj bus at Saidabad.

A 65-year-old man, Shahidullah Dhonu, was deceived by a gang using scopolamine, known locally as ‘Devil’s Breath,’ to steal his Qurbani money. After withdrawing 50,000 taka from Islami Bank in Basurhat, Noakhali, Shahidullah was approached by a stranger claiming to know his sons abroad. During a handshake, the man secretly took the cash. Police are investigating and trying to catch the criminals who typically operate quickly and flee the area.

Sacrificial animal markets in Bandarban have become busy in the final days before Eid-ul-Adha, with high demand for home-raised hill cattle. Buyers prefer these locally raised animals over farm-fattened ones for their variety and lower prices. Markets at Rajar Math, Kalaghata, Balaghata, and along the Sangu River are seeing a surge in activity. However, some sellers report fewer buyers and lower-than-expected sales. Authorities have strengthened security and taken measures against extortion and counterfeit currency to ensure smooth and safe trading.

Muhammad Fawzul Kabir Khan, advisor to the Ministries of Road Transport and Railways, confirmed that fuel prices have been reduced, and charging extra bus fare during Eid travel will not be tolerated. After inspecting Saidabad Bus Terminal, he emphasized that authorities are monitoring irregularities and will take strict action against offenders. A recent case of overcharging was addressed with refunds and fines. The government cut diesel prices by 2 taka and petrol and octane by 3 taka per liter for June to ease travel costs.

The National Eidgah in Dhaka is ready to host the main Eid-ul-Azha congregation at 7:30 AM on Saturday, accommodating up to 35,000 worshippers. Mufti Mohammad Abdul Malek will lead the prayer. If the weather is unfavorable, the main prayer will shift to Baitul Mukarram Mosque at 8:00 AM. The area is equipped with top-tier drainage, security, and facilities including separate zones for women, medical services, and VIP sections. Eight temporary cattle markets have also been set up for Eid sacrifices.

President Donald Trump has barred new international students from enrolling at Harvard University for the next six months through an executive order, which the university slammed as an unlawful, retaliatory act. Harvard accused the administration of violating its constitutional rights and pledged to protect international students. The move follows a series of punitive actions by the Trump administration, including funding cuts and political accusations. Trump also imposed travel bans on citizens from 12 countries and partial restrictions on seven more.

With just two days left before Eid-ul-Adha, cattle markets in Laxmipur’s Raipur are seeing heavy footfall. Buyers are mostly interested in small and medium-sized cows, leaving large cow traders worried about low prices. Some have yet to sell a single animal. Prices range from Tk 70,000 to Tk 2.5 lakh depending on size. Authorities report nearly 20,000 sacrificial animals are ready, with veterinary teams deployed for safety. Police remain vigilant to prevent extortion and counterfeit currency.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has seized 13 years of income tax records belonging to Tulip Siddiq in Bangladesh, along with documents related to a flat registered in her name at Janata Housing Society on Ring Road, Shyamoli.

ACC Director General Akhter Hossain confirmed the seizure, stating that investigators are authorized to confiscate any tax records necessary for an inquiry. Sources indicate that Tulip Siddiq has not submitted any income tax returns in Bangladesh since the 2018-19 fiscal year.