Elderly Woman’s Body Recovered From Pond in Hathazari

The body of a 70-year-old woman was recovered from a pond in Hathazari upazila of Chattogram district on Tuesday (31 March), prompting an investigation by local police. The deceased, identified as Bibi Ayesha, was found floating in the water near a brick kiln in Noapara area under Ward No. 5 of Mirzapur Union.

According to police and local sources, the incident came to light in the afternoon when residents spotted a body floating in the pond adjacent to the eastern side of the brick kiln. They immediately alerted authorities, following which a team from Hathazari Model Police Station arrived at the scene and recovered the body.

Locals stated that Bibi Ayesha was a poor elderly woman who made her living through begging. She had long been known in the area and was often seen walking around the neighbourhood despite her frail condition.

The recovered body was later identified as that of the wife of the late Abu Sama from the Monar Bari area under Ward No. 2 of Mirzapur Union. Her family members confirmed her identity after police informed them of the recovery.

Key Details of the Incident

Family members of the deceased told reporters that Bibi Ayesha had been suffering from epilepsy for a long time. They suggested that due to her physical weakness and ongoing health complications, she may have accidentally fallen into the pond, leading to her death.

Adding further context, local Union Parishad member Abdul Halim stated that he had seen the elderly woman walking in the area around midday on the same day of the incident. He also noted that she had been experiencing mental health issues in addition to her physical illness, which may have affected her stability.

Police officials, however, have said that the exact cause of death will be determined after a full investigation. Initial observations have not ruled out accidental drowning, but authorities are awaiting further confirmation.

Officer-in-Charge of Hathazari Model Police Station, Jahidur Rahman, confirmed that the body was recovered following the report from locals. He stated that after completing necessary legal formalities, the body was handed over to the family for burial.

Authorities have not reported any signs of foul play at this stage, though standard procedures for unexplained deaths have been initiated. Investigators are expected to review witness accounts and surrounding circumstances before concluding the case.

The incident has left the local community in shock, particularly as the deceased was known as a vulnerable elderly resident who frequently moved around the area alone due to her economic hardship and health conditions.