Cousin Dies After Land Dispute Turns Fatal in Shibchar

A long-running land dispute between two cousins in Shibchar Upazila of Madaripur has ended in tragedy after an altercation allegedly led to the death of one of them. The incident took place on Wednesday night in the village of Sare Egaroroshi under Madbarer Char Union, leaving local residents and family members shocked and grieving.

The deceased was identified as Altaf Madbar, 45, son of Islam Madbar of the village. The accused, Barek Madbar, son of Moslem Madbar, is also a resident of the same village and was the victim’s first cousin. Police said the suspect has been absconding since the incident and efforts are underway to locate and arrest him.

According to local residents, family members and law enforcement officials, the two men had been involved in a prolonged dispute over land and related family matters. Tensions between them had reportedly intensified in recent weeks. On Wednesday evening, the disagreement resurfaced and developed into a heated argument.

Witnesses alleged that during the confrontation, Barek Madbar struck Altaf Madbar forcefully in the chest. Moments later, Altaf collapsed to the ground. People nearby rushed to assist him and attempted to provide immediate help, but he did not respond. It was later confirmed that he had died at the scene.

The incident has drawn attention to the persistent problem of land-related conflicts in rural communities. Property disputes often become deeply personal, particularly when they involve close relatives and inherited land. In many parts of the country, disagreements over ownership, boundaries and inheritance rights have frequently resulted in lengthy legal battles, strained family relationships and, in some cases, violent confrontations.

Community leaders and social observers note that early mediation, dialogue among family members and effective local dispute-resolution mechanisms can play an important role in preventing such conflicts from escalating. They stress that disagreements, regardless of their nature, should be resolved through legal and peaceful means rather than violence.

Following the incident, officers from Shibchar Police Station arrived at the scene and recovered the body. The deceased was later sent to the Madaripur morgue for a post-mortem examination. Police officials stated that the autopsy report will help determine the precise medical cause of death and provide further clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Officer-in-Charge Kamal Hossain of Shibchar Police Station said the case is being treated with due importance and a thorough investigation is underway. He confirmed that attempts are continuing to apprehend the accused and that legal proceedings will follow in accordance with the findings of the investigation. Police sources also indicated that preparations are underway to file the relevant case.

Residents of the area have expressed hope that the investigation will be completed promptly and that those responsible will be brought before the law. Many have also called for greater awareness and stronger community-based efforts to prevent family disputes from escalating into incidents that claim lives.