A brutal attack in Munshiganj’s Gajaria Upazila has sent shockwaves through the local community, raising serious concerns about public safety and law enforcement in the area. The violence erupted over the rental of premises for a newly established police outpost, leaving a prominent businessman critically injured.
The victim, 38-year-old Abdul Kaiyum Dewan, is currently fighting for his life at the One Stop Emergency Centre (OSEC) of Dhaka Medical College Hospital after sustaining multiple gunshot and stab wounds. The assault occurred on Friday, 6 February, at approximately 4:30 pm in front of the Gajaria Central Mosque. Eyewitnesses report that, as Dewan was leaving the mosque following afternoon prayers, a group of armed assailants surrounded him, opening fire at close range before attacking him with sharp weapons. Dewan was shot four times in his legs, and several tendons in his hands and legs were severed, resulting in massive blood loss.
He received initial treatment at Bhoberchar Health Complex but was later transferred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital as his condition deteriorated. Hospital authorities have confirmed that his injuries are life-threatening, primarily due to excessive blood loss and multiple severe wounds.
Family members assert that the attack stems from Dewan’s efforts to rent out property for the police outpost, a measure that had previously reduced illegal sand extraction, extortion, and drug trafficking in the locality. Dewan’s younger brother, Md. Main Uddin Dewan, highlighted that his brother is a respected entrepreneur, particularly in the garments sector, and well-known for community service. Despite initial resistance from local residents, the Dewan family facilitated the premises’ use for the police outpost. This, however, angered a powerful criminal group with longstanding influence in the area.
The family also claims that Dewan had received multiple threats, both overt and covert, to withdraw support for the outpost. On 8 September 2025, the Home Affairs Advisor visited the area and directed the deployment of joint security forces. While a period of relative calm followed, tensions have resurfaced in recent months.
Police sources indicate that several suspects involved in the attack have prior criminal cases related to murder, drug offences, illegal sand mining, and eviction-related crimes. Md. Faruk, officer-in-charge of the Dhaka Medical College police outpost, confirmed that the incident has been officially reported and that formal legal action will follow.
Attack Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Abdul Kaiyum Dewan |
| Age | 38 |
| Occupation | Businessman |
| Location of Attack | Gajaria Central Mosque |
| Time | Approx. 4:30 pm |
| Weapons Used | Firearms and sharp weapons |
| Current Treatment | Dhaka Medical College Hospital, OSEC |
Local residents and community leaders have expressed deep anger and fear over the assault, calling for swift arrests and justice. They warn that any delay may allow criminal elements to consolidate power further, exacerbating the region’s security risks.
The incident has ignited renewed debate over local governance, crime control, and the responsibilities of law enforcement, highlighting the urgent need for stronger community protection measures.