Death Sentence in Rangpur Killing Case

A court in Rangpur, Bangladesh, has sentenced a 26-year-old man to death in a high-profile case involving the killing of a police officer while on duty, in a verdict that also included additional imprisonment and a financial penalty.

The convicted individual, Parvez Rahman Palash, son of Jahidul Islam from the Telipara area of Baharkachna in Haragach Thana under Rangpur city, was found guilty of murdering a police officer during an attack in 2021.

On Monday, 13 April, the Additional Metropolitan Sessions Judge’s Court in Rangpur delivered the judgement. Judge Marzia Khatun pronounced the death sentence along with a fine of 10,000 Bangladeshi taka. The court also imposed an additional five-year rigorous imprisonment under a separate charge.

The case relates to an incident that occurred on 25 September 2021 in the Sahebganj area of Rangpur city. According to case documents, Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Piarul Islam of Haragach Police Station was attacked while performing official duties. He was reportedly stabbed with a knife, resulting in severe injuries. He was immediately rescued and admitted to Rangpur Medical College Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries during treatment.

Following the incident, police filed two separate cases under charges of murder and narcotics-related offences. After an investigation, law enforcement arrested the main accused, Parvez Rahman Palash. The investigating officer subsequently submitted a charge sheet to the court.

During the trial, the court recorded testimony from 18 witnesses. After hearing arguments from both the prosecution and the defence, the judge delivered the final verdict, concluding a lengthy judicial process.

Case summary

Additional Public Prosecutor ASM Mahmudul Karim Liton stated that the prosecution successfully proved the charges beyond reasonable doubt. He added that the verdict sends a strong message against violent attacks on law enforcement personnel and reinforces the importance of ensuring their safety while on duty.

Security was significantly tightened in and around the court premises during the announcement of the verdict. Law enforcement agencies maintained strict control to prevent any untoward incidents.

Legal observers and court officials have noted that the judgement is expected to be viewed as a precedent in cases involving attacks on police officers, reinforcing the judiciary’s firm stance on violent crime against state personnel.