The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has detained the prime suspect believed to be directly involved in the brazen daylight killing of a businessman in Old Dhaka’s Shyambazar area. The arrest marks a major development in a case that has stirred significant public concern and raised questions about extortion, local rivalry, and the growing pattern of violence targeting business communities in the capital.
According to officials, the suspect, identified as Nayon, was apprehended during a special RAB operation conducted late on Thursday night in Mirpur. The elite force confirmed that an illegal firearm was seized during the arrest, which investigators suspect may have been used in the killing. RAB-10’s media officer, Taposh Karmakar, confirmed the arrest and stated that further details would be disclosed in an upcoming official press briefing.
The murder victim, 55-year-old Abdur Rahman, was a well-known spice trader and former president of the Shyambazar Kanchabazar Business Association. Witnesses reported that he was shot in broad daylight yesterday afternoon while standing in front of the Maula Box Sardar Eye Hospital, a location that typically sees heavy footfall. The sudden attack left the entire locality in shock, with traders and residents expressing fear over worsening security conditions.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the assailant approached Rahman from close range and fired multiple rounds before fleeing the scene. Panic spread through the market area as people rushed for cover. Some local traders reportedly attempted to chase the attacker but stopped after witnessing the presence of a firearm.
Severely wounded, Abdur Rahman collapsed on the pavement before nearby pedestrians rushed him to the emergency department of Sir Salimullah Medical College Hospital. Despite frantic efforts, doctors declared him dead at around 1:30pm. Sutrapur Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge, Matiur Rahman, later confirmed the death to the media.
Family members and colleagues of the victim expressed deep grief, describing him as a respected businessman who had contributed immensely to local trade. Some sources hinted that the killing may be linked to unresolved business disputes or local turf conflicts. Authorities, however, have yet to confirm the motive.
RAB officials have indicated that interrogations of the arrested suspect are ongoing. Investigators are now trying to determine whether Nayon acted alone or as part of a larger network. The recovery of the firearm is expected to provide crucial forensic evidence, including potential ballistic matches.
Residents of the Shyambazar area have urged law enforcement to strengthen patrols and ensure better protection for traders, who say they increasingly feel vulnerable. The incident has reignited discussions about armed groups, extortion syndicates, and the need for improved surveillance in densely populated commercial zones of Old Dhaka.
A full press briefing from RAB is expected soon, offering further insights into the motive, background, and possible masterminds behind the killing.