Attack on ‘Nural Pagla’: Russell beaten with hammers, hacked at with sharp weapons, his father says

The family of Russell Mollah, killed in an attack on the shrine and residence of self-styled spiritual leader Nurul Haque, known locally as “Nural Pagla” in Rajbari’s Goalanda, has demanded justice for his murder.

Russell’s father Azad Mollah said, “On Friday afternoon, the agitated crowd beat my son's face with a hammer and slashed at his back. What did my son do wrong? Why was he killed? I want justice for my son's murder.”

Aziz made the demand on Saturday at his house in Debgram Union’s Jatu Mistripara.

In a tear-stricken voice, he said: “My son was a fan of Nural Pagla since he was young. He used to go to the Goalanda Pak Darbar Sharif since he was a child. He went there on Fridays, too.”

Russell, 28, was a covered van driver by trade. Azad said he has yet to decide whether to file a case.