A university student remains missing more than 26 hours after an alleged robbery attempt and violent chase along the banks of the Brahmaputra River in Mymensingh, raising serious concerns about public safety in the area.
The incident occurred on Wednesday evening when two students from Ananda Mohan College were reportedly attacked by a group of teenage muggers while returning from a riverside outing. One student managed to escape, but the other—identified as 26-year-old Nurullah Shawon—remains unaccounted for as of Thursday night.
Shawon, a third-year chemistry student, hails from Katiadi upazila in Kishoreganj district. According to his family, he was a dedicated student with aspirations for a stable career. His sudden disappearance has left relatives in deep distress.
Table of Contents
Sequence of Events
According to police and eyewitness accounts, Shawon and his friend Manjurul Ahsan (Riyad) had spent the afternoon near Zainul Abedin Park before crossing to the opposite bank of the river. At approximately 6:00 pm, they were confronted by a group of at least seven किशोर boys who demanded money and valuables.
When the students explained they had little beyond boat fare, the group allegedly turned violent, assaulting both victims. Shawon reportedly protested, which led to intensified physical abuse. In a desperate attempt to escape, the two friends fled in different directions.
Riyad jumped into the river and swam to safety. However, Shawon’s whereabouts became unknown during the chaos. “We tried to hand over our phones, but they continued beating us,” Riyad later recounted. “We ran in different directions to save ourselves. I survived, but I cannot find my friend.”
Search and Investigation
Later that night, local residents, along with Riyad, apprehended a 15-year-old suspect and handed him over to police. The following morning, Shawon’s bag and shoes were recovered near the riverbank, intensifying fears of a possible drowning or further foul play.
Police, assisted by fire service divers, conducted an extensive search operation in the river. Despite these efforts, no trace of Shawon has yet been found.
Below is a summary of the key details:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | Wednesday evening |
| Location | Brahmaputra Riverbank, Mymensingh |
| Victim | Nurullah Shawon (26) |
| Companion | Manjurul Ahsan (Riyad) |
| Suspects | 7 individuals |
| Arrests | 1 (aged 15) |
| Evidence Found | Bag and shoes |
| Current Status | Missing |
Public Reaction and Legal Action
The incident has sparked protests among students and faculty at Ananda Mohan College. On Thursday afternoon, a human chain was organised on campus, demanding Shawon’s safe return and swift justice against those responsible.
Shawon’s mother, Shahida Begum, has filed a formal complaint with Kotwali Model Police Station, naming seven suspects and several unidentified individuals. Authorities have since registered the case and launched a broader campaign to apprehend the remaining suspects.
The Officer-in-Charge, Najmus Sakib, confirmed that all accused are believed to be school-aged students. “Our search and arrest operations will continue until the missing student is found,” he stated.
Growing Safety Concerns
The In the event has reignited debate over safety in Mymensingh, particularly in relatively isolated along the river areas. Local residents have called for increased police patrols and stricter monitoring to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the hours pass, Shawon’s family, friend, and teachers wait anxiously for any sign of hope—while authorities race against time to uncover the truth behind his disappearance.