Cocktail Blast in Chapainawabganj Kills Two

A tragic explosion at a makeshift cocktail manufacturing site in Chapainawabganj’s Sadar Upazila has claimed two lives and left three others injured. The incident occurred in Char Bagdanga Union in the early hours of Saturday (14 February) at approximately 5:00 a.m., sending shockwaves across the local community.

Police and the Crime Investigation Department (CID) responded rapidly to the scene. Preliminary investigations indicate that the explosion happened during the preparation of improvised cocktails. Authorities are working to collect evidence and determine the precise cause of the blast.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Gautam Kumar Biswas confirmed the fatalities, stating: “The bodies of the two deceased were found at the scene. Both had severe burn injuries, and their hands were partially dismembered. The injured were immediately transferred to the nearest medical facility for treatment.”

Mohammad Shahjahan, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Rajshahi Range, elaborated on the incident, noting, “Initial findings suggest that the deceased were locally involved in making cocktails. It appears that one or multiple devices detonated simultaneously. The CID is gathering evidence and conducting investigations, and steps will be taken to establish the identities of those affected.”

Eyewitnesses reported that the explosion was extremely loud, causing panic throughout the surrounding area. Police have cordoned off the scene to prevent further accidents and are collecting debris and remnants for forensic examination.

A summary of the casualties and hospital transfers is presented below:

Authorities emphasised that the exact cause of the explosion remains under investigation. Residents have been urged to exercise caution and refrain from handling explosive materials without proper expertise.

The incident has cast a pall of grief over Chapainawabganj. The district administration has pledged financial and humanitarian support to the families of the deceased, while arrangements are being coordinated with local hospitals and health authorities to ensure comprehensive care—both medical and psychological—for the injured.

Preliminary analysis suggests that the explosion was accidental, occurring due to unsafe handling of cocktail devices. Police and CID teams continue to gather evidence and will pursue all necessary legal measures.