A farmer was fatally shot by three masked gunmen in the Rayta Pathorghat area of Kushtia’s Vhedamara upazila on Friday evening, while a second man was seriously injured. The incident occurred at approximately 8:00 pm, according to local authorities.
The deceased, Refazul Islam, aged 50, was a lifelong resident of the area and primarily made his living as a farmer. Locals say he occasionally fished in nearby rivers to supplement his income. The injured man, Lalon Mondal (45), suffered multiple wounds from a sharp weapon and was admitted to Vhedamara Upazila Health Complex for treatment.
Police reports indicate that the two men were walking along a road in the Bahadurpur Union when three masked individuals approached. Two carried pistols, while the third had a shotgun. At close range, they fired at Refazul, killing him instantly, and attacked Lalon with a knife. The attackers then fled, leaving the area in shock and panic.
Additional Police Superintendent Md. Delwar Hossain confirmed the attackers wore black gloves and masks. “The exact motive for this brutal attack is not yet known,” he said. “We are investigating and the Detective Branch is involved in identifying the perpetrators.”
This attack highlights the growing concern over rural insecurity in the area. Local residents have expressed fear and anxiety following the incident, emphasising the need for stronger law enforcement presence. Analysts note that such violent incidents, if left unchecked, can have a significant impact on the sense of safety in smaller communities. The police are appealing for any witnesses to come forward to help bring the culprits to justice.