Man Dies from Electrocution During Alleged Battery Theft

A 32-year-old man has died after reportedly being electrocuted while attempting to steal the battery of a battery-powered three-wheeler in Nabiganj Upazila of Habiganj district. The incident came to light on Friday morning, prompting a police response and drawing considerable attention from local residents.

The deceased was identified as Shoaib Mia, son of Abdul Basit, from Nadampur village in the Bausa Union of Nabiganj Upazila.

According to police and local sources, the incident is believed to have occurred late on Thursday night inside the premises of Shahjalal Auto Rice Mill, located in the Barak Nagar area along the Nabiganj–Rudragram road. A battery-powered three-wheeler, locally known as a mishuk, had been left on charge overnight. Investigators believe Shoaib entered the mill compound with the intention of removing the vehicle’s battery. During the attempt, he is suspected to have come into contact with a live electrical connection, resulting in fatal electrocution at the scene.

The incident remained undiscovered until Friday morning when Rakhal Chandra Das, the driver of the three-wheeler, arrived at the rice mill to begin his daily work. On approaching the vehicle, he noticed an unresponsive man lying nearby. After realising the individual had died, he immediately informed Nabiganj Police Station.

Police officers soon arrived at the scene, recovered the body, and conducted an initial forensic examination before sending the remains to the morgue at Habiganj Sadar Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

Describing the events leading up to the discovery, Rakhal Chandra Das said he had parked the vehicle inside the rice mill at around 11:00 p.m. on Thursday and connected it to a charger before locking the main gate and returning to his rented accommodation for the night. When he came back the following morning, he found the body lying beside the vehicle and contacted the authorities without delay.

Some local residents alleged that Shoaib Mia had previously been involved in incidents of theft, including the theft of batteries from electric three-wheelers and burglaries at nearby homes. They claimed that he had been detained by local people on several occasions over similar allegations but was released each time after being warned. According to residents, those warnings failed to deter him from allegedly engaging in similar activities.

However, these allegations remain unverified and should not be treated as established fact. Police have indicated that any previous claims regarding criminal involvement will only be assessed through lawful investigation and evidence.

Officer-in-Charge Md Abul Hossain of Nabiganj Police Station said officers visited the scene immediately after receiving the report and completed the inquest procedures. He confirmed that the body had been sent to Habiganj Sadar Hospital for a post-mortem examination, adding that the exact cause of death would be confirmed once the forensic report is received.

He also stated that investigators are examining all aspects of the incident. Physical evidence collected from the scene, along with statements from direct and indirect witnesses, will be reviewed before any further legal action is taken in accordance with the law.

Residents noted that batteries connected to charging systems and other electrically powered equipment can pose a serious risk if handled improperly or without disconnecting the power supply. Even a brief lapse in caution can result in fatal consequences. Police have emphasised that the investigation remains ongoing and that the circumstances surrounding the death will be established based on forensic findings and evidence collected during the inquiry.