The presence of a controversial “teen gang” leader at a political rally in Cumilla has sparked intense criticism across social media and local political circles. On Wednesday afternoon, Imran Hossain alias Ratan, the leader of the infamous teen gang “Ratan Group” or “Squad,” was seen directly participating in a rally led by Md. Mohsin, Vice President of Cumilla City Chhatra Dal, on the Dharmasagar Par road in front of the Cumilla District Superintendent of Police’s office.
A recently circulated video on social media shows Chhatra Dal leader Mohsin leading from the front row, while Ratan—an accused in multiple cases—was seen walking right behind him. The publication of the video triggered widespread outrage among conscious citizens and the general public. Questions were raised over the public appearance of a top gang leader in a political rally at a time when law enforcement agencies are conducting drives against teen gangs in the city.
When asked about the incident, Chhatra Dal leader Md. Mohsin stated that he had led party activists to maintain discipline at a central program of the Swechchhasebak Dal. He claimed that amid the large crowd, it was not possible for him to identify who was a criminal or a gang leader. Denying allegations of providing political or personal shelter to Ratan, he asserted that Chhatra Dal never indulges teen gang members and that identifying criminals and taking legal action remains the responsibility of law enforcement agencies.
Regarding the matter, Nahiduzzaman Rana, President of Cumilla City Chhatra Dal, stated that they have maintained a strict stance against gang culture and drugs from the beginning. He mentioned that he has already spoken with Mohsin regarding the video and that the entire incident is being investigated organizationally. If any evidence of connection or patronage with the gang leader is found upon investigation, strict organizational action will be taken against the accused.
Although teen gang activities first emerged in Cumilla in 2015, the “Ratan Group” or “Squad” gained notoriety as one of the city’s primary sources of panic. Allegations indicate that Ratan and his followers established dominance around the Dharmasagar Par, Ranir Kuthi, Ranir Dighi, Talpukur Par, and Jhautala areas, engaging in various criminal activities including brawls, bloody clashes, drug trading, mugging, and extortion. Turf wars with rival gangs have previously resulted in numerous violent clashes and murders.
Law enforcement agencies have conducted joint operations at various times to curb the criminal activities of the Ratan Group. Ratan was arrested on the night of April 26, 2025, during a joint operation by RAB and the Army, but was later released on bail. Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Kotwali Model Police Station, Touhidul Anwar, stated that Ratan has been absconding since securing bail, and although multiple drives were conducted to re-arrest him, he has gone into hiding.
