Although there is support for efforts to curb drug trafficking, the minister’s actions have reportedly put the government in an uncomfortable position.
UNB
18 October, 2026, 11:45 pm
Last modified: 18 October, 2026, 11:44 pm
The incident involving Liberation War Affairs State Minister and Dhaka-6 MP Ishraque Hossain raising a firearm during an anti-drug drive has caused unease within the BNP and the government, triggering widespread criticism on social media.
Ishraque conducted a surprise raid on a suspected drug den in a slum beside the railway tracks in Ward No 45 under Gandaria Police Station in Dhaka-6 yesterday (17 October). Six people were detained on suspicion of involvement in drug trading.
While people concerned have welcomed the campaign against drug dens across the country, questions have been raised over the minister's approach.
Although there is support for efforts to curb drug trafficking, the minister's actions have reportedly put the government in an uncomfortable position.
Social media users have been closely scrutinising the incident, particularly Ishraque's participation in an anti-drug operation without the direct involvement of law enforcement agencies and his display of a firearm.
The controversy started after a video of the incident was uploaded to the minister's own official Facebook page. Many questioned his decision to conduct such an operation as a state minister, brandish a firearm and publicise the incident on social media. Others also raised questions about the role of law enforcement agencies.