Seven Murders in Seventeen Days Heighten Anxiety in Narsingdi

Narsingdi district is witnessing a worrying rise in violent crime, with seven murders recorded in just seventeen days. The succession of killings and attempted homicides is causing growing concern among residents, as one incident seems to follow another without pause. Unidentified bodies are frequently discovered across the district, although forensic technology has enabled authorities to identify many victims posthumously.

In a notable development, the firearm used in the shooting of Sharif Osman Hadi was recovered from Narsingdi on the night of Tuesday, 16 December. The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) reported that authorities seized two foreign pistols, two magazines, a toy pistol, and 41 rounds of ammunition. This discovery has prompted urgent questions among the public: is Narsingdi emerging as an underground weapons hub? From where are these arms entering the district?

Residents report that displays of firearms, robberies, assaults, and public shootings are becoming increasingly frequent. Many locals fear that criminals now hold sway over daily life, leaving ordinary citizens feeling powerless. With national elections on the horizon, observers are concerned that violent incidents may escalate further. Despite vigilant efforts by law enforcement, an air of pervasive fear continues to haunt the community.

Concerned citizens cite business and political vendettas, robberies, territorial disputes, and personal rivalries as the principal causes of these crimes. While political assassinations were more common in the past, contemporary killings often arise from theft, the drug and arms trade, land disputes, and even minor conflicts related to local businesses or services.

Over the past seventeen days, seven bodies have been recovered across six sub-districts. The details are outlined below:

The RAB has arrested Mohammad Faisal (25) in connection with the shooting of Hadi. Faisal’s in-laws, residing in the Tarowa area of Narsingdi, were implicated after his brother-in-law provided information leading to the recovery of firearms. Previously, Faisal’s wife, his brother-in-law, and a partner had been taken into custody.

Local social worker Rashedul Hasan commented, “The ongoing incidents leave us in constant fear. Families are terrified even within their homes. Law enforcement must intensify vigilance, especially with elections approaching. Otherwise, anxiety will continue to dominate daily life.” Similarly, Holadhar Das, General Secretary of Sujon Narsingdi, noted, “Violent incidents are occurring in quick succession. Armed criminals act with impunity. While the police are trying their best, public awareness is equally essential. Only through a combination of strict law enforcement and civic vigilance can these crimes be curtailed.”

Police Superintendent Md. Abdullah-al-Faruk assured the public that investigations are ongoing and suspects are being apprehended. He added that the law and order situation in the district is currently stable and showing signs of improvement.