Student Killing: Three Robbers Sentenced to Death

Three alleged robbers have been sentenced to death for the killing of university student Mohammad Wazed Simanto in Narayanganj during a robbery.

Narayanganj District and Sessions Judge Mohammad Abu Shamim Azad delivered the verdict on Monday, 17 August, in the presence of the three accused. The condemned men were identified as Anik, Akash and Chandi Babu. They were present in court when the judgment was announced.

Court Police Inspector Abdus Samad confirmed the death sentences. According to court records, the three men had previously faced several cases involving robbery, murder and drugs.

The case stemmed from an attack on Simanto, a student of the Computer Science and Engineering Department at American International University-Bangladesh. On the morning of 12 December 2024, Simanto left his home at around 6am intending to travel to his university.

While passing in front of Minnat Ali Shah Saheb Mazar in the Dewbhog area of Narayanganj, he was allegedly intercepted by a group of robbers. The attackers stabbed him and took his mobile phone and Tk1,800 in cash.

Simanto sustained serious injuries in the attack. He was initially taken to Narayanganj General Hospital for treatment. As his condition deteriorated, he was transferred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital for advanced medical care. Despite treatment, he died at around 11pm on 14 December, two days after the attack.

Simanto was the son of Mohammad Alam Parvez of the Dewbhog area.

The killing sparked concern over street crime and the safety of commuters, particularly those travelling during the early morning hours. The incident also highlighted the risks faced by students and other residents who have to travel through relatively quiet areas before the start of the working day.

According to court sources, 24 of the 27 witnesses listed in the case testified during the trial. After examining the witness statements and other evidence placed before it, the court found the three accused guilty and handed down the death penalty.

The verdict brings the trial at the lower court level to a significant stage, although a death sentence in Bangladesh is subject to the applicable legal review and appeal process before it can be carried out. The case also underscores the importance of effective investigation, prosecution and judicial scrutiny in serious violent-crime cases.

The court’s decision follows the prosecution’s presentation of evidence concerning the robbery, stabbing and subsequent death of the university student. The three convicts will remain subject to the further legal procedures available to them under the law.