Man Found Dead in River Two Days After Disappearance

In a tragic incident in Pabna, a young man was found dead in the Baral River two days after going missing while visiting his in-laws’ home. Authorities recovered the body on Monday, 23 March 2026, at around 1:00 pm near the Silanda Bazar area of Santhia Upazila, prompting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Incident Details

The deceased has been identified as Zahid Hasan, aged 35, son of Kazem Pramanik of Amritkunda Hatpara village, Mulgarm Union, Chatmohar Upazila. Family and police sources noted that Zahid had a history of mental health challenges, which may be relevant to understanding the events leading to his death.

According to reports, Zahid had travelled to his in-laws’ residence in Demra village, Faridpur Upazila, several days prior. On 20 March 2026, around 7:00 pm, he left the in-laws’ home and did not return. Despite extensive searching by family and neighbours, no trace of him was found until two days later.

Discovery and Recovery

On Monday afternoon, locals near Silanda Bazar spotted a body floating in the Baral River and alerted the police. Officers from Santhia Police Station promptly retrieved the body and transported it to the station. Following identification by family members, the deceased was confirmed to be Zahid Hasan.

Official Statements

Santhia Police Officer-in-Charge Rafiqul Islam said:

“We recovered the body after receiving the report. The family informed us that Zahid had mental health issues. The cause and circumstances of death are not yet confirmed. The Nogorbari River Police will complete the necessary legal procedures.”

Nogorbari River Police In-Charge Fakhrul Islam added:

“We submitted a preliminary report and sent the body to the Pabna General Hospital morgue for autopsy. The family is providing a written statement, and a case of accidental death has been registered. Further legal action will follow once the autopsy report is available.”

Community Reaction

The incident has shocked the local community, with many expressing sympathy for Zahid’s family. Neighbours and locals noted the urgency of mental health support and the dangers posed to vulnerable individuals, especially in areas near rivers or other water bodies.

Key Details of the Case

The case remains under investigation, with authorities awaiting the autopsy report to determine the precise cause of death. The tragedy underscores the risks faced by individuals with mental health vulnerabilities and highlights the need for community vigilance and timely intervention.