Smugglers yesterday roughed up two Rab (Rapid Action Battalion) officials when they visited Panchabati to gather information on drug peddlers.

Monirul Islam and Torab Ali came under the attack of smugglers, led by Monir and Rony. The two received first aid.

Police later arrested Monir, but a pro-BNP Ward Commissioner Saiduzzaman Khan Mato allegedly forced the law-enforcers to release him.

Director of Rab in Rajshahi Lieutenant Colonel Faruk Hossain however denied the allegation of assault. But the duty officer of Boalia Police Station last night confirmed they recorded an assault case of two Rab officials.