Police in Chattogram have apprehended Babu Sheikh, the prime suspect in the brutal assault and subsequent death of the young girl, Ira, who had been receiving medical treatment following severe injuries sustained at the Sitakunda Botanical Garden and Ecopark area. According to the district police, preliminary investigations and collected evidence have identified him as the principal accused in the case.
Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Md. Russel confirmed the arrest to reporters on Tuesday afternoon, 3 March. He stated that law enforcement intensified the investigation immediately after the incident, utilising both technological tools and local intelligence networks. This concerted effort led to the suspect’s detention, during which authorities obtained crucial information through interrogation.
On Sunday, 1 March, Ira was discovered in a critically injured state in a remote hilly section of Ecopark, Sitakunda. Workers involved in road repairs near Chandranath Mandir were the first to spot her, and with the assistance of locals, she was swiftly transported to Sitakunda Upazila Health Complex. As her condition deteriorated, she was later transferred to Chattogram Medical College Hospital for advanced medical care.
Medical reports indicate that the child had suffered severe neck injuries from a sharp object, necessitating emergency surgery. She was admitted to the hospital’s intensive care unit. On Monday, 2 March, she was shifted to the One-Stop Crisis Centre, but her condition worsened. Subsequent transfers to the ENT and throat departments did not improve her state, and she tragically passed away early Tuesday morning while under intensive care.
Preliminary medical examinations revealed that Ira had been sexually assaulted, with multiple injuries observed across her body, including deep cuts on her thighs and serious internal trauma. Forensic samples have been collected for further analysis.
The victim’s uncle, Aziz, recounted that Ira appeared stable on Monday night around 9:30 pm and attempted to communicate with her family through gestures. However, she began experiencing breathing difficulties later that night, and doctors prohibited food or water intake.
Following the incident, Ira’s mother filed a case with Sitakunda Police Station on the night of 1 March, alleging abduction and attempted murder. Police have indicated that the case will be formally upgraded to a murder investigation.
Incident Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Sitakunda Botanical Garden & Ecopark |
| Date of Discovery | 1 March |
| Date of Death | 3 March (early morning) |
| Medical Facility | Chattogram Medical College Hospital |
| Type of Allegation | Abduction, attempted murder (now under murder investigation) |
| Arrest | Prime suspect: Babu Sheikh |
Authorities are continuing to investigate whether others were involved and will amend the charge sheet once autopsy and forensic reports are received. Local administration has assured strict legal action against those responsible.