BARGUNA, March 1, (V7N) - Residents of Patharghata have accused Mamun, an assistant at the Water Development Board, of illegally allocating government land and embezzling large sums of money. The allegations have sparked anger among locals, who say repeated complaints to authorities have yielded no solution.

Markets and establishments have reportedly sprung up in areas including Padma, Tengra Bazar, Nachnapara, Kakchira, Bainchatki, Kalmegha, Gyanpara Kanchurhat, Charduani Union, Macher Khal Bazar, and Bandhaghata. Locals claim Mamun facilitated construction on government land and forest areas in exchange for payments ranging from Tk 35,000 to several lakhs per plot.

Victims allege that saplings planted for afforestation were cut down in Nizhlathima Tengra Bazar to build houses, with Mamun cited as granting permission. Traders and residents say he demanded money to approve construction, with one complainant reporting a Tk 2 lakh payment.

Patharghata Forest Division officer Md. Abdul Hai confirmed that forest trees and saplings were destroyed, accusing Mamun of financial transactions involving reserved land. Panel chairman Golam Sagir also said multiple complaints had been lodged against him.

When approached, Mamun refused to comment. Barguna District Water Development Board executive Abdul Hannan acknowledged land encroachment complaints but said they were unaware of Mamun taking money in the department’s name. He assured that if proven, departmental action would follow.

The allegations highlight growing frustration among Patharghata residents, who demand accountability and immediate intervention to protect government land and forests from illegal occupation.

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