DHAKA, Feb 25, 2026 (BSS) - The Mitford branch of the Doctors Association of Bangladesh (DAB) arranged a discussion, doa (prayer) and iftar mahfil today to seek forgiveness for the soul of the late former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. The programme took place this afternoon at the Sir Salimullah Medical College auditorium. Member of Parliament for Dhaka-7, Hamidur Rahman Hamid, attended the event as the chief guest. DAB leaders present as special guests included President Professor Dr. Harun Ar Rashid, Secretary General Dr. Md. Zahirul Islam Shakil, Senior Vice President Professor Dr. Md. Abul Kainan, Senior Joint General Secretary Professor Dr. A.K.M. Khalequzzaman Dipu and Joint General Secretary & BMU Proctor Dr. Sheikh Farhad. Dr. Md. Mehedi Hasan, President of the DAB Sir Salimullah Medical College & Mitford Hospital Branch and Treasurer of the DAB Central Committee, presided over the programme. In his speech, Chief Guest Hamidur Rahman Hamid praised the medical community for its tireless service and called on doctors to continue providing proper care to the poor and destitute. He also assured that he would support the people in any difficulty. DAB President Dr. Harun Ar Rashid highlighted the country's progress, saying that after a long 17-year struggle, a democratic environment has been established. He emphasized that under the leadership of the people's Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman, work is underway to implement the country's development roadmap and urged everyone to contribute to national progress in cooperation with the government. Secretary General Dr. Md. Zahirul Islam Shakil echoed similar sentiments, noting that the people have elected the present government through a democratic process and that everyone must support its nation-building efforts. In his closing remarks, Dr. Md. Mehedi Hasan expressed gratitude to all attendees for the successful completion of the event and reiterated the need for collective contribution to the country's development from all sectors.  

DHAKA, Feb 25, 2026 (BSS)- Bangladesh Coast Guard arrested nine pirates including their ring leader Jahangir, 28 from Maheshkhali in Cox’s Bazar. A press release of the coast guard here said they also seized arms and ammunition during the drive. Coast Guard rescued four fishermen who were under the captivity of the pirates in a hijacked fishing boat, the release said. The press release said a fishing boat named ‘FB Mayer Dua-3’ fell victim to piracy near Sonadia Char under Maheshkhali Police Station in Cox’s Bazar.  The Coast Guard was informed of the incident through the emergency service number 16111.  Based on the information, the Coast Guard Stationed in Cox’s Bazar and Maheshkhali conducted a rescue operation in the area. After searching the boat, the team recovered three locally made firearms, four rounds of live ammunition and six locally made weapons.  Legal procedures against the arrested pirates are currently underway, and necessary steps regarding the rescued fishermen, fishing boat and seized items are being processed.