Illegal hill cutting claims another life in Cox’s Bazar

A worker was killed after being buried under soil while reportedly cutting a hill in Cox’s Bazar’s Ukhiya upazila early today.

The incident occurred around 5:00am in the South Sonaichhari area of Jaliapalong union.

The deceased was identified as Md Nurul Amin, 30, of the union, said Inani Forest Range Officer Firoz Al Amin.

He said two locals -- Helal Uddin and his younger brother Sarwar Alam -- have been engaged in hill cutting and soil trading for a long time.

“Nurul was killed when soil collapsed during hill cutting carried out under Helal’s initiative early today,” he added.

The official further said a similar death occurred in the same area in 2024, and a case was filed against the two brothers at that time.

Jaliapalong Forest Beat Officer Roknuzzaman said Helal was present at the scene with a mini truck. “Sensing the presence of forest officials, he fled with the truck.”

Ukhiya Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Nur Ahmed said the body of the worker was recovered, and legal proceedings are underway in this connection.