A violent incident linked to a long-standing romantic dispute has left a young man critically injured and triggered arson attacks on multiple homes in Narsingdi’s Madhabdi area, prompting heightened security and ongoing police investigations.
The unrest occurred late on Sunday night in the Khanmardi area under Madhabdi Municipality. The victim, Sajjad Hossain (22), son of expatriate Mahatab Bhuiyan, was brutally attacked with sharp weapons while returning alone during inclement weather. He sustained severe injuries and was initially taken to a local medical facility before being transferred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, where he remains in critical condition.
According to local residents and police sources, Sajjad had been involved in a long-term romantic relationship with a teenage girl from the same locality. The couple had reportedly eloped on multiple occasions and even contracted informal marriages. While Sajjad’s family had accepted the relationship, the girl’s family objected due to her underage status. The dispute escalated within the community, eventually leading to a local arbitration meeting attended by community elders. It was reportedly decided that the marriage would only be formally recognised once the girl reached adulthood, with her staying at her parental home until then.
Tensions flared again on the night of the attack. As Sajjad stepped out alone during a storm, he was allegedly ambushed by assailants and repeatedly stabbed, leaving him critically wounded. He was later rescued by locals and rushed for emergency treatment.
News of the incident rapidly spread through the area, provoking anger among Sajjad’s relatives and supporters. In a retaliatory response, they set fire to three separate houses—those belonging to the girl’s family members, including her father’s home and residences of close relatives. Fire service units arrived but initially faced resistance from the agitated crowd. With police assistance, firefighters managed to bring the blaze under control after approximately two hours, though all three houses were completely destroyed.
Incident Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Khanmardi, Madhabdi Municipality |
| Time | Late Sunday night |
| Victim | Sajjad Hossain (22) |
| Nature of attack | Assault with sharp weapons |
| Medical status | Critical; admitted to Dhaka Medical College Hospital |
| Subsequent violence | Arson attacks on three houses |
| Law enforcement action | Investigation ongoing; FIR lodged |
A senior officer from Madhabdi Police Station stated that the incident appears to have stemmed from the unresolved romantic dispute and tensions following the arbitration. Preliminary findings suggest the involvement of hired attackers, although this has yet to be confirmed. Authorities have assured that those responsible will be identified and brought to justice.
Police patrols have since been intensified in the area to prevent further escalation, as the local situation remains tense but under control.