Two killed in mob beating during attempted robbery in Shariatpur

The robbers hurled explosives and shot indiscriminately at locals during a foiled attempt to rob a freight ship on the Kirtonash River, leaving five people injured

Two people have been beaten to death by a mob during an attempt to rob a freight ship on the Kirtonasha River in Shariatpur.

At least five others were injured by gunfire and hand bombs thrown by the robbers during the incident, which unfolded around 11:30pm on Friday, according to Shariatpur Superintendent of Police Nazrul Islam.

Police have yet to identify the dead men. Among those injured by the robbers’ gunfire are 35-year-old Tota Mia, 30-year-old Masum Mia, 19-year-old Alamin, idenfitified by a single name.

Two of the injured are in critical condition and have been transferred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, while the others are receiving treatment at Shariatpur Sadar Hospital.

A group of robbers attempted to hijack the vessel in the Rajarchar area of Madaripur, according to police and witnesses. Locals noticed the incident and began chasing the robbers, who fled towards Tetulia in Shariatpur. Upon reaching Tetulia, the locals blocked the robbers' speedboat using the freight vessel.

News of the robbery attempt quickly spread on social media, and mosque loudspeakers were used to alert residents. Within moments, hundreds of people surrounded the robbers. During the confrontation, the robbers threw hand bombs and fired indiscriminately, injuring several people.

“Faced with resistance from locals, the robbers abandoned their speedboat and attempted to escape. Seven of them were captured, beaten by the mob, and later handed over to the Palong Model Police Station,” said Nazrul.

Dr Muntasir Khan from Shariatpur Sadar Hospital confirmed that two of the injured individuals died upon arrival. Three others are receiving treatment at the hospital, while two critically injured victims have been transferred to Dhaka.

Nazrul said that police arrived at the scene and rescued the injured individuals, transporting them to the hospital. Among the seven suspects beaten by locals, two have died.

Police have also seized a firearm and a speedboat used in the robbery attempt. Authorities are preparing to take legal action over the incident.