Prime suspect arrested in Talha murder case in Dhaka operation

Police in Dhaka have arrested the prime accused in the murder case of Daffodil International University student Khondoker Abu Talha, bringing renewed attention to a long-pending investigation that dates back several years.

The suspect, identified as Abdur Rahman, also known as Milon (28), was detained by officers from Jatrabari Police Station during a late-night operation at the Sayedabad bus terminal area. According to a statement issued on Thursday morning by the media and public relations division of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police, the arrest was made around 11 pm on Wednesday following intelligence-led surveillance.

Police officials said Milon had long been on their watchlist and was known in the area as an active figure involved in mugging and drug-related activities. Authorities added that he had previously been arrested in connection with the same murder case but was later released on bail, after which he allegedly resumed criminal activities.

The case relates to the killing of Khondoker Abu Talha, a first-year student of Daffodil International University. On the morning of 8 October 2017, Talha left his home in the Tikatuli area of Dhaka, heading towards his campus in Ashulia. While walking through a narrow lane near RK Mission Road, he reportedly tried to intervene when a group of muggers attacked a passer-by. During the confrontation, he was stabbed by the assailants.

Critically injured, Talha was rushed to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead while undergoing treatment. His death triggered widespread concern at the time, particularly among students, as he was described by his family as the eldest of three siblings and a promising young student.

Family members said Talha came from Deora village in Burichang, Cumilla. His father had previously been involved in the garment business. The incident left the family devastated, and the case has remained a point of focus in ongoing criminal proceedings.

Investigators have also linked several other individuals to the same mugging gang, including suspects identified as Litu, Hira and Aslam. Police officials confirmed that efforts are continuing to locate and apprehend the remaining members of the group, with further interrogations expected to follow Milon’s arrest.

Authorities say the latest detention marks a significant step forward in a case that has remained active for years, though they emphasise that the investigation is still ongoing.