Woman Businesswoman Stabbed to Death in Gazipur

A brutal attack in broad daylight has claimed the life of a female businesswoman in Gazipur, highlighting concerns over rising street violence in the region. The prime suspect, a former student political leader, was arrested late on Saturday night following the incident.

The victim, Ranu Begum, 40, hailed from Maijbag village in Ishwarganj Thana, Mymensingh, and was married to Mohammad Hiron. She had been residing in West Kolmeshwar, Gazipur, where she ran a clothing store, “Rani Fashion Gallery”, located in the bustling Dulal Market. Ranu was well known locally not only for her business acumen but also for lending money on interest, which appears to have sparked tensions with other traders in the area.

The arrested suspect, Ashiq Islam, also known as Swapon, 27, is the son of Nazrul Islam from the same locality. Ashiq previously served as General Secretary of the 35th Ward branch of the Gazipur Metropolitan Chhatra Dal but is no longer active in the organisation.

Police and local sources reported that a longstanding dispute over outstanding loans had escalated the tensions between Ranu and the Nazrul-Ashiq family. According to witnesses, at around 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, Ranu allegedly verbally abused Nazrul Islam over the disagreement. In a fit of rage, Ashiq reportedly attacked Ranu with a sharp knife, inflicting multiple stab wounds.

Ranu’s son, Hridoy Mia, along with local resident Osman Hossain, rushed to her aid but were also stabbed during the assault. Locals managed to rescue the severely injured Ranu, who was immediately taken to Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmad Medical College Hospital. Despite intensive medical care, she succumbed to her injuries later that afternoon.

Following the murder, Hridoy filed a formal complaint with the police, prompting a search operation. Around 2:00 a.m., law enforcement officials located and apprehended Ashiq in Valuka, Mymensingh.

Key Details of the Incident

Gazipur Metropolitan Chhatra Dal president, Rohanuzzaman Shukkur, told local media: “We do not condone any form of violent activity. If Ashiq has committed a crime, he must face exemplary punishment. He is currently not involved in any party activities.”

Gazipur Gacha Thana Officer-in-Charge, Md. Moniruzzaman, confirmed that the primary suspect has been arrested and sent to jail through court proceedings. He added that operations to apprehend other potential accomplices are ongoing.

Local residents expressed shock and grief at the brutal killing, describing Ranu as a respected entrepreneur and mother whose untimely death has left the community deeply unsettled.