A Rangamati district and sessions court has sentenced two men—the victim’s son and nephew—to death for the brutal murder of Shantilal Chakma in the Sajek region of Rangamati. Judge Md Ahsan Tareq delivered the verdict on Tuesday afternoon following a prolonged judicial process, ruling that the prosecution had proved the charges beyond reasonable doubt through witness testimony, forensic reports, and documentary evidence.

The convicts have been identified as Sohel Chakma, the victim’s son, and Alomoy Chakma, his nephew. Sohel Chakma, who was present in the dock, was remanded to Rangamati District Gaol under a conviction warrant to await execution. Alomoy Chakma remains absconding, having jumped bail during the proceedings. The court directed that his sentence be carried out upon his rearrest or surrender.

According to the case dossier and evidence presented in court, the crime occurred on the night of 6 August 2017 in the remote Uttor Bhaibonchhora area under Sajek Police Station. The accused lured Shantilal Chakma out of his residence before strangling him with a Gamcha (traditional cotton towel) and hacking him repeatedly with a sharp machete. To conceal the crime, the perpetrators submerged his body in the Gangaram River.

Following an extensive search by local law enforcement, police recovered Shantilal’s decomposed remains from the Kachalang River nine days later. A homicide investigation ensued, leading to formal charges and the arrest of the suspects. Delivering his observations, Judge Tareq characterized the killing as exceedingly cruel, vicious, and barbaric, remarking that such animalistic acts pose a severe threat to civilized society and warrant the maximum legal penalty.

Defence counsel Advocate Md Rashed Iqbal expressed disagreement with the verdict, asserting that Sohel Chakma was falsely implicated due to internal family disputes rather than direct involvement. The defence confirmed plans to challenge the ruling in the High Court Division of the Supreme Court upon consulting the family.

The Chittagong Hill Tracts region has historically faced unique policing and administrative challenges owing to its rugged terrain and remote geography. The trial, concluding nearly nine years after the crime took place, marks a significant judicial outcome for the region, with the final execution of the sentences now contingent upon the upcoming appellate process.