Khulna has been gripped by fear and outrage following the brutal killing of a journalist in a targeted motorcycle-borne attack, highlighting growing concerns over security and press freedom in the region. The victim, Imdadul Haque Milon, 45, a respected journalist and community organiser, was shot dead at close range by armed assailants on Thursday night, 18 December. The same attack left another man, Debashish Biswas, 30, a veterinary practitioner, critically injured. The incident occurred at approximately 9:30 pm at a roadside tea stall in the Sholua Bazar area under Aranghata Police Station, an otherwise busy and familiar gathering place for locals.
Eyewitnesses described a sudden and terrifying scene. Milon was seated at the tea stall with Debashish Biswas and several acquaintances, engaged in informal conversation, when two motorcycles carrying four armed men arrived without warning. According to those present, the assailants did not exchange words or issue threats. Instead, they immediately opened fire, creating panic among bystanders. Debashish Biswas was struck first, suffering a gunshot wound to the chest that caused him to collapse instantly. Seconds later, the attackers turned their weapons towards Imdadul Haque Milon, shooting him in the head at point-blank range. He died at the scene before any medical assistance could be provided. The attackers fled swiftly, disappearing into the darkness within moments.
Local residents quickly gathered and, despite the shock, acted decisively. Both victims were rushed to Khulna Medical College Hospital. Hospital officials later confirmed that Milon was declared dead upon arrival in the emergency department. Debashish Biswas was admitted to the surgery unit, where doctors reported his condition to be critical, though stable, as he continues to receive intensive treatment.
Khulna Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner (North), Sudarshan Kumar Roy, confirmed the incident and stated that police responded immediately after receiving reports of the shooting. Multiple investigation teams have been formed to identify the attackers and determine the motive behind the killing. Officers are collecting forensic evidence, questioning witnesses, and reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding areas. Senior police officials have indicated that the murder appears to have been carefully planned and targeted.
Imdadul Haque Milon was associated with the online news platform Bartaman Somoy and served as President of the Sholua Press Club. He had previously worked with the local daily Dainik Probaho. Widely known for his professionalism, social involvement, and strong voice on local issues, Milon was regarded as a journalist who maintained close ties with ordinary citizens and civic groups.
Milon’s uncle, Md Jamal Sharif, spoke with visible emotion, recalling how he rushed to the scene after receiving the news and found his nephew lying in a pool of blood. Despite immediate efforts to save him, doctors were unable to do so. He said the family was unaware of any personal enmity and noted that Milon was also serving as General Secretary of the Sholua Bazar Committee.
Meanwhile, the family of Debashish Biswas remains confused and distressed. His brother stated that Debashish was primarily engaged in veterinary practice and small business, and they have no clear understanding of why he may have been targeted.
Officer-in-Charge of Aranghata Police Station, Shahjahan Ahmed, reiterated that the killing bears the hallmarks of a premeditated attack. The incident has intensified concerns about law and order in Khulna, prompting journalists, local residents, and civil society members to demand the swift arrest and exemplary punishment of those responsible.