Khulna, 5 February 2026 — A 22-year-old man, Rakib Hossain, was fatally shot by assailants outside a salon in the Ashibigha area of Khulna late on Thursday night. The incident occurred at around 10:00 PM near a local salon under the jurisdiction of Laban Chara Police Station.
Rakib, a resident of the neighbourhood and son of Anwar Hossain, was reportedly sitting inside the salon when two unidentified individuals entered the premises. According to eyewitness accounts and police sources, the attackers forcibly dragged him outside onto the street, where they shot him twice at close range in the head. Rakib collapsed immediately, and the assailants fled the scene on foot.
Local residents rushed Rakib to Khulna Medical College Hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Police Investigation
Mohammad Tajul Islam, Deputy Commissioner (South) of Khulna Metropolitan Police, told journalists that initial investigations suggest the killing may have been motivated by local power disputes and drug-related conflicts. Two bullet casings were recovered from the scene.
Police also revealed that Rakib Hossain had prior legal cases registered against him, including three cases related to narcotics. Authorities have identified several individuals allegedly involved in the attack and are actively pursuing their arrest.
Tuhin Uz Zaman, Officer-in-Charge of Laban Chara Police Station, confirmed that the body will be handed over to the family after post-mortem examinations and completion of the necessary legal procedures. A formal case has been filed, and investigations are ongoing.
Context and Local Impact
Crimes linked to territorial disputes and drug trade have seen a worrying rise in Khulna in recent years. Local residents expressed shock and concern over the brazen nature of the attack, highlighting the need for stronger community policing.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Rakib Hossain |
| Age | 22 |
| Father | Anwar Hossain |
| Location | Ashibigha, Laban Chara, Khulna |
| Time of Incident | 10:00 PM, Thursday |
| Scene | Outside a local salon |
| Cause of Death | Gunshot wounds (head) |
| Number of Shooters | 2 (suspected) |
| Evidence Recovered | 2 bullet casings |
| Motive | Suspected local power and drug disputes |
| Legal Cases Against Victim | 3 (including drug-related) |
| Police Status | Several suspects identified; arrests underway |
Authorities have urged the local community to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement as investigations continue. The incident underscores ongoing safety concerns in the area, particularly regarding violent acts linked to criminal disputes.