A shopkeeper was brutally killed in broad daylight in Chitalmari upazila of Bagerhat district following a dispute that reportedly began over the purchase of a juice drink, according to local authorities.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:00 a.m. on Thursday (7 May) in the Hijla Westpara village. The victim, identified as 45-year-old Mozahidul Islam Molla, was the owner of a local grocery shop and the son of Sorwar Molla from the same village.
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Dispute escalates into fatal violence
Eyewitness accounts and local sources indicate that the altercation began inside or near the victim’s shop when a disagreement arose over buying juice. The confrontation quickly escalated between Mozahidul Islam and Bayojeed Sheikh, the son of neighbouring resident Badsha Sheikh.
What started as a verbal exchange allegedly turned violent when Bayojeed Sheikh became enraged and attacked Mozahidul Islam with a sharp sickle. The shopkeeper sustained critical injuries and died on the spot.
The shocking nature of the killing in a busy morning hour caused immediate panic among villagers, many of whom gathered at the scene shortly after the incident.
Aftermath and community reaction
Following the attack, tension spread rapidly throughout the area. Angered by the killing, local residents reportedly vandalised the residence of the accused and physically assaulted him before police intervention. Law enforcement later rescued the injured suspect and admitted him to hospital under police custody.
Police officials confirmed that the situation has since been brought under control, though additional security has been deployed in the locality to prevent further unrest.
Police response and legal action
Chitalmari Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md. Nazrul Islam stated that officers responded swiftly after receiving information about the incident. He confirmed that the prime accused has been detained and that legal proceedings are underway.
The body of Mozahidul Islam Molla has been sent to Bagerhat Sadar Hospital morgue for post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death and support ongoing investigation efforts.
Key details of the incident
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Mozahidul Islam Molla (45) |
| Father’s Name | Sorwar Molla |
| Occupation | Grocery shop owner |
| Location | Hijla Westpara, Chitalmari, Bagerhat |
| Time of Incident | Around 7:00 a.m., Thursday (7 May) |
| Suspected Assailant | Bayojeed Sheikh |
| Weapon Used | Sharp sickle |
| Current Status | Accused detained; injured and hospitalised |
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the full circumstances behind the fatal confrontation.