Rangpur’s Badarganj area has been struck by tragedy following the consumption of toxic alcohol, resulting in the deaths of three individuals, while two others remain under medical care. The incident occurred on Monday, 12 January, local police sources confirmed. Badarganj Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC), Md. Hasan Zahid Sarker, and OC Abdur Gafur of Rangpur Sadar Kotwali Police Station both verified the report.
The deceased have been identified as:
Alamgir (40), son of Amirul Islam, of Basantapur in Gopalpur Union,
Sohel (30), son of Rafiqul Islam, from Shibpur, and
Jindar Ali, son of Saidar Rahman, from Shyampur Sahapara village in Chandan Path Union, Rangpur Sadar.
Two others, who remain critically ill and are receiving treatment in hospital, are:
Khairul Islam, son of Nurul Islam, of Kishamat Basantapur, Gopalpur Union, and
Anichul Islam, a tailor from Shyampur Bandar.
According to police reports, the five individuals purchased rectified spirit from a local drug dealer, Zainul Abedin, in Noya Para, Kishamat Basantapur, on 11 January. Following consumption, three of them fell gravely ill. Two died at home, while one succumbed to poisoning at Badarganj Upazila Health Complex. The remaining two continue to receive medical attention.
The police acted swiftly, arresting Zainul Abedin and seizing ten bottles of rectified spirit. Authorities have urged local residents to exercise extreme caution and avoid consuming alcohol or spirits from unknown sources, warning that such substances can be deadly.
Below is a summary of those affected:
| Name | Age | Father’s Name | Location | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alamgir | 40 | Amirul Islam | Basantapur, Gopalpur | Deceased |
| Sohel | 30 | Rafiqul Islam | Shibpur | Deceased |
| Jindar Ali | — | Saidar Rahman | Shyampur Sahapara | Deceased |
| Khairul Islam | — | Nurul Islam | Kishamat Basantapur | Hospitalised |
| Anichul Islam | — | — | Shyampur Bandar (Tailor) | Hospitalised |
OC Md. Hasan Zahid Sarker stated, “Two of the victims passed away due to alcohol poisoning. The perpetrator has already been arrested, and two individuals are currently under medical supervision.” OC Abdur Gafur of Rangpur Sadar Kotwali added, “Jindar Ali’s death has been confirmed as a result of consuming toxic alcohol.”
Police have appealed to the local community to remain vigilant and avoid unverified alcoholic beverages. They emphasised that strict awareness is crucial to prevent further incidents of this nature in the region.