The body of a four-year-old girl who had gone missing after visiting a local shop to buy biscuits has been recovered two days later in Sylhet, prompting grief and concern in the local community.
Police recovered the remains of Fahima Akter early on Friday (8 May) at around 6:30am from an area beside a pond near her home in Sonatola village under Kandigaon Union in Sylhet Sadar Upazila.
Fahima, daughter of day labourer Raisul Haque, had reportedly left home on Wednesday morning with 10 Bangladeshi taka given by her mother to buy biscuits from a nearby market. When she failed to return, her family began searching surrounding areas but could not locate her. A general diary was later filed at the local police station by her father.
According to local accounts, extensive searches were carried out by relatives and villagers over the following two days, but there were no leads until her body was spotted near the pond on Friday morning. Police were immediately informed, following which officers arrived at the scene and recovered the body.
Authorities have stated that the exact cause of death remains unknown at this stage. The body has been sent to Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital morgue for post-mortem examination. Officials said the autopsy report will be crucial in determining whether the death was accidental or if any foul play was involved.
The incident has left the local community in shock, particularly as the child went missing in broad daylight from a relatively familiar area close to her home.
Key details of the incident
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Name of victim | Fahima Akter |
| Age | 4 years |
| Residence | Sonatola village, Kandigaon Union, Sylhet Sadar |
| Occupation of father | Day labourer (decorations shop worker) |
| Date of disappearance | Wednesday, 6 May |
| Circumstance of disappearance | Went to local market to buy biscuits |
| Date of recovery | Friday, 8 May |
| Location of recovery | Area beside a pond near home |
| Current status | Body sent for post-mortem examination |
Police officials confirmed that no formal complaint has yet been filed in connection with any suspected criminal involvement. However, they added that any allegations or evidence that may arise will be investigated thoroughly.
A police officer stated that the investigation is ongoing and further action will depend on the findings of the post-mortem report and any subsequent inquiry. In the meantime, authorities have urged the public to remain patient as the circumstances surrounding the child’s death are clarified.