Old Dhaka Shooting: RAB Captures Key Suspect After Midnight Raid!

A major breakthrough has been achieved in the investigation into the fatal shooting of a prominent businessman in Old Dhaka’s Shyambazar, as the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has arrested the prime suspect believed to be behind the attack. The murder, which occurred in broad daylight, has intensified concerns about targeted killings and criminal activities within Dhaka’s traditional trading districts.

The suspect, identified as Nayon, was apprehended during a carefully coordinated RAB operation late Thursday night in the Mirpur locality. Authorities recovered an illegal firearm from his possession, strengthening suspicions that he may have been directly involved in the shooting. RAB-10’s media officer, Taposh Karmakar, confirmed the arrest and stated that further details will be shared in an upcoming press briefing.

The victim, Abdur Rahman, aged 55, was a respected spice trader and a former president of the Shyambazar Kanchabazar Business Association. At approximately midday on Wednesday, Rahman was shot outside Maula Box Sardar Eye Hospital, a busy spot known for its constant flow of patients and traders. The sudden burst of gunfire caused chaos, with pedestrians scattering and traders rushing to close their shutters.

Eyewitnesses described the attack as swift and calculated. The gunman reportedly approached Rahman from close range, fired multiple shots, and escaped before anyone could intervene. Some witnesses claimed that the killer had been lurking in the area for several minutes, suggesting the attack was premeditated rather than spontaneous.

Following the shooting, Rahman was immediately transported to Sir Salimullah Medical College Hospital by nearby residents and traders. Doctors pronounced him dead around 1:30pm, citing severe internal injuries caused by the gunshot wounds. Officer-in-Charge Matiur Rahman of Sutrapur Police Station later confirmed the details of his death.

Local traders reacted with grief and outrage, expressing worries that criminals are becoming increasingly emboldened. Many said that disputes within the complex network of Old Dhaka’s markets have escalated in recent years, sometimes leading to violent confrontations. Several traders speculated that Rahman may have been targeted due to disagreements involving trade leadership or market control.

Police and RAB investigators have begun piecing together the events leading up to the murder. They are analysing CCTV footage from the surrounding area and questioning individuals familiar with both the victim and the suspect. Authorities believe that the seized firearm may yield crucial evidence once forensic tests are completed.

The arrest of Nayon marks a significant step in the investigation, but officials emphasised that the case remains far from closed. Investigators are exploring whether the suspect had accomplices or whether the attack was carried out at the behest of influential individuals seeking to assert dominance over market affairs.

Community members have urged authorities to take immediate measures to improve overall security in Old Dhaka’s bustling commercial hubs. Many argue that visible law enforcement presence, better lighting, and tighter surveillance are necessary to prevent similar attacks in the future.

RAB is expected to address the media shortly, likely shedding more light on the motive, the suspect’s background, and potential links to organised crime.