SHARIATPUR: Yet another custodial death was reported, now in this southwestern district, despite last July’s High Court directive for the government to punish such excesses following a number of deaths in custody in the capital.

The deceased was identified as Mokhlesur Rahman, 40, of Moshurgaon village in Goshairhat upazila.

Family members alleged the victim died in police custody on Tuesday night. Police denied the allegation and claimed it to be a case of “suicide.”

The body was sent to Shariatpur Sadar Hospital morgue for autopsy.
Hospital sources said injury marks were found on the body.

Witnesses said Goshairhat thana police held Mokhles on August 29 as a suspect in a double-murder case and took him on a three-day remand for interrogation on Tuesday afternoon.

Ekram Ali Molla, OC of Goshairhat thana, said, “Mokhles committed suicide by hanging himself with a torn piece of blanket in the thana hajat. He was not tortured.”

Victim’s wife, Mursheda Begum, claimed, “My husband was not a listed accused in the case. Police held him on suspension and tortured him severely. I want justice.”

Two siblings--Nirob, 5, and Rojoni,3, children of Faisal Sardar of Mohishkandi village--were drowned in a water-body on August 10. Mokhles was held on charges of killing the kids.  

The High Court on July 19 warned that custodial death would not be tolerated and those guilty of such lynching, whoever they may be, would be meted out legal action.

BDST: 1234 HRS, SEPT 1, 2010