In Bauphal’s Kalaiya area, prominent businessman Shibu Banik remains unaccounted for 36 hours after being abducted at gunpoint. Despite police efforts, no significant progress has been made in locating him. The abduction has triggered widespread protests, with over 500 traders initiating an indefinite strike demanding his immediate rescue.

On Sunday, the strike continued for a second consecutive day, with shops in Kalaiya Bazar shuttered and cargo unloading operations halted at the port. Supplies arriving from Dhaka and other parts of the country have been disrupted, causing severe inconvenience to locals. The closure of shops has left residents struggling to access basic commodities, compounding the distress caused by the abduction.

The incident occurred on Friday night around 10:30 PM at Marchant Patti in Kalaiya Bazar. Armed assailants stormed Shibu Banik’s wholesale store, binding two of his employees before looting approximately 750,000 taka in cash. Following the robbery, the perpetrators abducted Shibu Banik at gunpoint and escaped on a trawler. Shibu Banik is a key distributor for several major companies and a wholesale trader dealing in essential goods like rice, lentils, and flour.

The abduction has sent shockwaves through the local business community, prompting them to organize the indefinite strike to pressure authorities for swift action. Traders have demanded increased efforts from law enforcement to ensure Banik's safe return.

Bauphal Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Ruhul Amin stated that multiple police teams are actively working to locate the abducted businessman. He added that discussions are ongoing with the striking traders to persuade them to reopen their shops.

As the strike enters its second day, the region faces a growing crisis, with commercial activities and essential services at a standstill. The abduction of a prominent trader has raised serious concerns about security in the area, and residents are anxiously awaiting news of Banik’s recovery.