In a shocking and tragic incident in Jhalokathi’s Kathalia area, a 14-year-old girl has been reportedly beaten to death by her uncle over a mere 170 taka. The horrifying episode occurred on the afternoon of Tuesday, 30 December, in the village of Aurabunia, though it only came to public attention the following day.
The victim, Lamia Akter, was the stepdaughter of Faruk Khan, the elder brother of the accused, Zakier Hossain Khan, and a tenth-grade student at Uttar Charail Hasemia Dakhil Madrasa. Following the incident, local residents apprehended the alleged perpetrator and handed him over to the police. The community has called for exemplary justice in the case.
According to the police, Lamia’s family, and local witnesses, a verbal altercation broke out after 170 taka went missing from Lamia’s possession. In the ensuing argument, Zakier Hossain reportedly began assaulting Lamia’s mother, Lili Begum. Attempting to protect her mother, Lamia intervened, but the accused allegedly struck her repeatedly with a shovel, causing severe injuries to both mother and daughter.
The victims were rushed by family members to Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital in Barishal. Tragically, Lamia succumbed to her injuries on the same night. Her mother, Lili Begum, is currently receiving treatment at SHEBA Hospital and remains in a serious but stable condition.
Kathalia Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge, Abu Naser Mohammad Raihan, confirmed that the accused has been taken into custody. He further stated that legal proceedings would commence upon receiving a formal complaint from the victim’s family. Meanwhile, locals are urging authorities to ensure strict and swift justice, highlighting the brutal nature of the crime and its impact on the community.
Summary of Key Facts :
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Lamia Akter |
| Age | 14 |
| School | Uttar Charail Hasemia Dakhil Madrasa, Grade 10 |
| Accused | Zakier Hossain Khan (Uncle) |
| Relationship | Stepdaughter of elder brother Faruk Khan |
| Date of Incident | 30 December, afternoon |
| Location | Aurabunia, Kathalia, Jhalokathi |
| Cause | Dispute over missing 170 taka |
| Injuries | Lamia Akter (fatal), Lili Begum (hospitalised) |
| Legal Action | Accused arrested; formal complaint pending |
The incident has left the local community in shock, raising urgent questions about domestic safety and accountability. The tragic death of such a young girl over a minor monetary dispute has drawn widespread condemnation, with many calling for rigorous law enforcement to prevent such grievous acts in the future.