RAB-13 conducted a late-night raid on Thursday in Mahishtuli village under Velabari Union of Aditmari upazila, Lalmonirhat, arresting a suspected drug dealer. Acting on a tip-off, the elite force detained Ayna Begum, wife of Samir Uddin, from her residence. During the operation, officers recovered 311 bottles of Eskaf, 98 bottles of Phensedyl, and 133 bottles of Fairdyl, totaling 542 bottles of illegal drugs hidden under a bed in her bedroom.

According to RAB’s Additional Superintendent of Police and Senior Assistant Director Biplob Kumar Goswami, the operation was based on secret intelligence. Following the arrest, a case was filed against Ayna Begum under the Narcotics Control Act on Friday morning. Authorities confirmed that anti-drug drives will continue as part of the government’s zero-tolerance policy against narcotics.

The operation highlights RAB’s ongoing efforts to curb drug trafficking in northern Bangladesh, with continued enforcement actions expected in the coming days.

A delegation led by Jamison Greer, the United States Trade Representative under President Donald Trump’s administration, held a virtual meeting with Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Tarique Rahman on Friday at 9 a.m. Bangladesh local time. The meeting was confirmed by Rahman’s press secretary, Saleh Shibli.

According to the report, the discussion focused on bilateral trade between Bangladesh and the United States, mutual tariff rates, and prospects for future economic cooperation. The meeting was also attended by Brendan Lynch, Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia; Emily Ashby, Director for South and Central Asia; and Humayun Kabir, BNP Chairperson’s foreign affairs adviser and the party’s joint secretary general.

The meeting highlighted ongoing engagement between the BNP leadership and U.S. trade officials regarding economic collaboration and trade policy matters.

The Department of Shipping under the Ministry of Shipping has formed a six-member special taskforce to address the ongoing lighter vessel shortage ahead of the upcoming holy month of Ramadan. The government decided to operate mobile courts in key river routes including Narayanganj, Jashore, and Noapara to curb the illegal use of lighter vessels as floating warehouses by some importers. Legal action will be taken against those responsible for obstructing cargo unloading and disrupting normal supply chains.

According to the Department of Shipping, several importers have been keeping goods on lighter vessels for extended periods instead of unloading them, effectively turning them into floating storage facilities. The sudden increase in commercial ships at outer anchorage due to bulk imports before Ramadan has created a shortage of lighter vessels needed to unload goods from seaports. This has delayed cargo handling and raised concerns about potential artificial shortages of essential commodities.

Officials believe that implementing this initiative will help stop the misuse of lighter vessels, speed up cargo unloading, and ensure stable supply of essential goods in the market during Ramadan.

The second phase of the US-backed Gaza peace plan has begun despite violations of the ceasefire and unresolved issues from the first stage between Israel and Hamas, according to AFP. On Wednesday, a 15-member Palestinian technocratic committee was formed in Gaza to oversee daily governance and reconstruction. The committee will operate under the supervision of a US-supported 'Peace Board' chaired by US President Donald Trump. Mediator nations Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar stated that former Palestinian deputy minister Ali Shath from Ramallah will lead the committee.

The first phase focused on implementing the ceasefire, allowing humanitarian aid, and securing the release of hostages held by Hamas and allied groups. However, only the body of one Israeli hostage was returned, while full disarmament of Hamas and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza remain unresolved.

The second phase will emphasize disarmament, governance restructuring, and ensuring humanitarian assistance. Yet, the core political challenges—Hamas’s disarmament and Palestinian unity—remain unsettled, posing significant obstacles to the peace process ahead.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman held a virtual meeting with US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamison Greer to discuss bilateral trade, tariff rates, and future economic cooperation. The meeting was also attended by Assistant US Trade Representative for South and Central Asia Brendan Lynch, Director Emily Ashby, and Jamaat’s US spokesperson Professor Dr. Mohammad Nakibur Rahman.

According to Jamaat’s central publicity department, Dr. Rahman thanked Ambassador Greer for initiating the call and for his support on tariff discussions. Greer reportedly informed him that he had recently met President Donald Trump to discuss reducing mutual tariffs. Dr. Rahman expressed gratitude for the US initiative to grant special tariff benefits for garments made from 100% US cotton or man-made fibers, calling it a “win-win” formula benefiting both nations’ industries.

Dr. Rahman said the mutual tariff agreement has strengthened the foundation of Bangladesh-US economic relations. He added that if Jamaat forms the next government after the February national election, it will continue implementing the agreement and deepen trade and investment ties. He also welcomed US support for Bangladesh’s access to the Development Finance Corporation fund and invited Greer to visit Bangladesh.

The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) in Sirajganj has projected a combined market value of around Tk 1,200 to 1,250 crore from mustard and honey production in the current season. Mustard cultivation has expanded to 90,550 hectares across Ullapara, Tarash, Raiganj, and Shahjadpur upazilas, exceeding the initial target of 90,000 hectares. The DAE expects about 146,000 metric tons of mustard to be produced if weather conditions remain favorable. Farmers are optimistic about good profits due to improved seed varieties and favorable weather.

Honey production has also become a significant economic activity alongside mustard farming. The district has set a target of producing 404,000 kilograms of honey this season, with 220 beekeepers already collecting about 100,000 kilograms. Ullapara upazila leads in both mustard and honey output, creating employment opportunities for many. The DAE is promoting the high-yielding BARI Sarisha-20 variety, which matures within 75–80 days and allows farmers to cultivate boro rice afterward.

Officials noted that expanding mustard cultivation could help reduce Bangladesh’s dependence on imported edible oil, as domestic production currently meets only a small portion of national demand.

Rapid Action Battalion (RAB)-10 has arrested Md. Bapparaj, also known as Bappa, the prime suspect in the murder of CNG auto-rickshaw driver Pappu Sheikh in Jurain under Dhaka’s Kadamtali police station. Acting on a tip-off and using technological assistance, RAB-10’s CPC-1 Jatrabari Camp team detained Bapparaj from the Hasnabad area of South Keraniganj around 7:20 p.m. on Wednesday, January 15.

According to RAB, the murder occurred on December 1 in Kana Jobbar’s Lane of Jurain’s Kabi Nazrul area, where Bapparaj and his associates allegedly carried out a planned armed attack on Pappu Sheikh, firing three rounds. One bullet hit a vital area, leaving Pappu critically injured; he later died at the hospital. Based on a complaint from the victim’s father, a murder case was filed at Kadamtali Police Station, and RAB-10 assisted in tracking down the fugitives.

RAB reported that Bapparaj faces eight cases involving weapons, drugs, robbery, and extortion at Kadamtali Police Station. He has been handed over to the concerned police station for legal proceedings. Earlier, two other suspects, Yusuf Sardar and Uzzal alias Kanchi, were also arrested in connection with the same case.

Candidates from BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami have entered full campaign mode in Rajshahi’s six parliamentary constituencies ahead of Bangladesh’s 13th national election. Analysis of their affidavits shows a stark financial imbalance, with BNP candidates generally relying more on personal funds while most Jamaat contenders depend heavily on loans and donations to cover campaign expenses. In several constituencies, candidates’ declared expenditures exceed their total assets, highlighting the growing role of financial capacity in electoral competition.

Political analysts cited in the report argue that such dependence on borrowed and donated money raises questions about post-election accountability and independence. A Rajshahi University political science professor noted that this reliance could influence future political behavior. Social analyst Toufiq Ahmed warned that elections are increasingly becoming contests of financial power rather than ideology, risking voter trust. Former election observer Anwar Hossain described the Rajshahi scenario as a reflection of the country’s broader electoral reality, where financial inequality undermines fair competition.

Observers believe that the imbalance between self-funded and donation-dependent candidates may directly affect voter confidence and the eventual election outcome in Rajshahi.

Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has arrested Jahangir Alam, the main accused in the attack on police during an anti-drug operation in Sreepur, Gazipur. According to a statement signed by Lieutenant Nafiz Bin Jamal, commander of RAB-1 Specialized Company, Porabari Camp, Jahangir was detained late Thursday night from the Ansar Road area of Sreepur upazila. The 26-year-old is a resident of Kewa Paschim Khanda village under Sreepur municipality.

RAB information states that on December 31, police from Sreepur station conducted an anti-drug operation behind Peer Ali Degree College in Maona Chourasta based on secret intelligence. Jahangir and another person were arrested during the raid. Following the arrests, Jahangir’s associates attacked the police with local weapons, assaulted officers, freed Jahangir, and vandalized two police vehicles, injuring five policemen. Sub-inspector Arun Kumar Biswas later filed a case over the incident.

Sreepur Police Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Nasir Ahmad confirmed that RAB handed Jahangir over to the police station and that he will be sent to court on Friday.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, marking the first direct meeting between the two countries’ top leaders in eight years. The talks took place at the Great Hall of the People and were viewed as a significant signal toward rebuilding diplomatic relations. Carney also met Chinese Premier Li Qiang before departing for Doha to meet Qatar’s Amir. The visit is seen as a milestone for Canada in rebuilding bilateral ties and exploring new economic opportunities while reducing dependence on the United States.

Relations between Ottawa and Beijing had been strained for nearly a decade, particularly after the 2018 arrest of a Huawei executive in Vancouver at the request of the United States. Both sides now indicate a desire to move past that period, focusing on overcoming the fallout from the Huawei case and the detention of Canadian citizens in China. However, challenges remain, including allegations of election interference, human rights concerns, and limited media access.

The visit could pave the way for practical trade agreements, though managing sensitive issues will remain the key test for both governments.

Venezuelan interim president Delcy Rodríguez stated on Thursday that her government is not afraid of a diplomatic conflict with the United States. Her remarks came after a U.S. military strike on January 3 that ousted her predecessor, Nicolás Maduro. Addressing the nation in parliament, Rodríguez said Venezuela recognizes U.S. power but will face it through political dialogue and diplomacy. Lawmakers applauded her speech as she urged Washington to respect Maduro’s dignity amid his drug trafficking trial in the United States.

Rodríguez, formerly Maduro’s vice president and a close ally of his leftist government, spoke shortly after a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump described her as an “extraordinary person” and said they discussed oil, minerals, trade, and national security, achieving what he called “remarkable progress.” Meanwhile, Rodríguez is balancing U.S. demands with the need to avoid backlash from pro-Maduro security forces and paramilitary groups.

On the same day, Trump met Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado. The White House called the meeting positive, though Trump continues to largely overlook other opposition figures.

Europe has deployed troops to Greenland following U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to take control of the island. However, the White House stated that this deployment will not hinder Trump’s objective. On Thursday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that European forces would not influence the president’s decision-making process or his goal of acquiring Greenland.

Leavitt mentioned that Denmark, Greenland, and the United States have agreed to form a working group to continue technical discussions on the acquisition issue, with meetings expected every two to three weeks. Meanwhile, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen wrote on social media that while both sides agree on strengthening Arctic security, they differ on methods. He emphasized that in 2026, trade should involve goods, not people.

Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, has rejected the idea of being sold. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that any U.S. attempt to forcibly seize Greenland could lead to NATO’s collapse.

A fire broke out on the second floor of a six-storey residential building in Sector 11 of Uttara, Dhaka, on Friday morning. Initially, three deaths were reported, but the toll later rose to six, including two women, one man, and a child. The identities of the remaining victims have not yet been confirmed. Thirteen people were rescued from the site and taken to Kuwait Maitree Hospital, according to the Fire Service.

The Fire Service’s central media cell reported receiving the fire alert at 7:50 a.m. Firefighters from Uttara Fire Station reached the scene at 7:58 a.m., brought the blaze under control by 8:25 a.m., and fully extinguished it by 10:00 a.m. Two units from the Uttara station took part in the operation.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the fire or details about the victims’ identities. Further investigation is expected to determine the source and circumstances of the incident.

A civic memorial meeting in remembrance of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia is being held today, Friday, January 16, at 2:30 p.m. at the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building. The event, organized by civil society, will be attended by BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman. Organizers emphasized that the gathering is not a political program but a national-level humanitarian tribute to Khaleda Zia. All attendees have been asked to bring their invitation cards.

The memorial is being presided over by former Chief Justice Syed J.R. Mudassir Hossain, with noted economist Professor Dr. Mahbub Ullah serving as chief organizer. At a press conference held Thursday at the Krishibid Institute in Dhaka, organizers detailed the arrangements and reiterated that no political speeches will be made. Distinguished citizens from various professions, including teachers, doctors, engineers, journalists, and representatives of ethnic and religious communities, will speak.

Organizers have requested participants to maintain solemnity by avoiding selfies, applause, or standing during the event. Guests are asked to wear black and white attire, and entry will be strictly controlled through invitation cards and designated gates.

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi stated that the Indian Army is preparing for future warfare, emphasizing the use of modern technology and indigenous military equipment. Speaking to reporters in Jaipur on Thursday after the Army Day parade, he said self-reliance is no longer just a goal but a strategic necessity.

Dwivedi explained that the army now possesses well-trained soldiers, modern equipment, and diverse operational capabilities, with technology being used to further enhance troop effectiveness. He noted a clear shift in the army’s strategic thinking in recent years. Referring to 'Operation Sindhur,' he said it demonstrated the army’s ability to strike swiftly, in a coordinated and precise manner, reflecting a mature and confident force capable of protecting national interests responsibly.

The army chief added that new structures have been created to meet future needs, including the formation of units such as the Bhairav Battalion and the Shaktiman Regiment. These developments reflect efforts to build a faster, more flexible, and mission-oriented army ready to face emerging challenges.