Hobiganj Murder Case Deepens Inquiry

In Bahubal upazila of Habiganj, the investigation into the killing of housewife Nazma Akhtar has revealed a complex web of alleged familial conflict, prior disputes, and investigative developments. Authorities have been examining claims that Abdul Gani is implicated in the murder, allegedly with motives linked to prior legal disputes and intra-family tensions.

According to the case details, the victim’s body was recovered on 20 October last year from a bamboo grove near her residence in the village of Kajihata. Initial observations recorded in the inquest report noted that the body was wet, without visible blood, and bore a cut mark on the neck. These forensic details have been central to the ongoing investigation conducted by the Police Bureau of Investigation (PBI).

Following the incident, Nazma Akhtar’s daughter, Nargis Akhtar, filed a murder case naming 10 individuals, including her paternal uncle. However, investigation records indicate that Abdul Gani, the brother of the victim’s co-wife, initially played a significant role in managing the case proceedings.

Authorities stated that Abdul Gani was later arrested after suspicion arose during the investigation. He was subsequently granted bail. During this period, the complainant Nargis Akhtar reportedly supported his legal release.

Later, Nargis Akhtar held a press conference alleging that the investigating officer was showing bias by acting in favour of certain accused persons and making arrests beyond the named suspects.

In contrast, the victim’s brother, Monir Mia, alleged that Abdul Gani killed Nazma Akhtar due to prior personal disputes and to remove her from a polygamous household arrangement. He further alleged that Gani attempted to implicate other individuals due to earlier conflicts, including a previous assault-related case that resulted in Gani’s imprisonment.

Local representatives provided additional context regarding family relationships and social dynamics in the area. A member of the Kajihata Union Parishad stated that Nargis Akhtar resides in Dhaka with her husband and is not regularly present in the village. He also noted that she is reportedly related through marriage to the son of Abdul Gani.

Another local elected representative stated that the matter is sensitive and declined to provide detailed comments.

The investigating officer of PBI, Inspector Rajib Kumar Das, confirmed that 10 individuals were initially named in the case. He added that one accused person had no prior criminal record, while most of the others had existing disputes or legal cases involving Abdul Gani.

During interrogation, Abdul Gani reportedly justified including one accused by alleging possible involvement in conspiracies. However, further investigation revealed that the individual was a daily wage labourer. His statement under Section 164 of the criminal procedure indicated that he had witnessed the incident and was implicated as a result.

Subsequent investigation led to Abdul Gani’s arrest. Authorities further stated that the case was initially influenced by internal family involvement, as the complainant was closely related to one of the principal accused.

The PBI also reported that the victim’s body condition and injury pattern were inconsistent with drowning or accidental death, reinforcing suspicions of homicide.

Key Case Summary

Authorities have stated that the investigation is in its final stage and a charge sheet is expected to be submitted shortly.