Bangladeshi migrant worker shot dead in South Africa’s Newcastle

Sumon had moved to the country 14 to 15 years ago, where he was engaged in business

A Bangladeshi man from Tangail has been shot dead by unidentified gunmen in South Africa.

Local police and family members confirmed the incident on Sunday.

The victim, identified only as Sumon, 35, was the son of Moiz Uddin from Abhirampur village in the Bashtoil Union of Mirzapur Upazila.

The incident took place on Saturday afternoon in Newcastle, a city in the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) province, according to Mirzapur Police chief Abdullah Al Mamun.

Sumon’s elder brother Jalal Mia said his brother had migrated to South Africa about 14 to 15 years ago, and established his own business near Newcastle city.

He said that on the day of the incident, Sumon had gone to the city to purchase goods for his business.

While returning with the supplies, a group of armed assailants intercepted his vehicle. He was shot at close range and died on the spot.

Jalal added that the exact motive behind the killing is still unknown.

Sumon had returned home three years ago and got married. He left behind a 2-year-old son.

The news of his death has left his relatives and neighbours in mourning.

Expressing deep condolences to the bereaved family, Helal Dewan, chairman of Bashtoil Union Parishad, urged authorities to help bring Sumon’s body back to the country quickly.