An 18-year-old disabled man died in Karnaphuli, Chattogram, after allegedly being tied up and beaten with a stick during a traditional healing ritual carried out on the advice of a local practitioner.
The deceased was identified as Said Mohammad Abdullah, son of Nur Mohammad Chowkidar and Jaheda Begum. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning in the Dangarchar Ebabullah’s Baper Bari area of Ward 1 in Juldha Union, under Karnaphuli upazila.
Police said Abdullah suffered severe injuries and died from excessive blood loss. His father and mother have been detained in connection with the incident.
Nur Ahmad, officer-in-charge of Karnaphuli Police Station, confirmed the death and said the young man was being subjected to stick blows as part of a ritual intended to treat him when he died. The body was sent to the mortuary of Chattogram Medical College Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
“His parents have been detained, and legal proceedings are under way,” the officer said.
According to police and local residents, Abdullah had a disability and his family had previously consulted several doctors in the hope of improving his physical condition. However, they reportedly saw no improvement. The family later sought advice from a traditional healer.
Following that advice, family members allegedly tied Abdullah’s hands and feet inside their home on Tuesday morning and began striking him with a stick as part of a ritual involving traditional healing practices. At one stage, he suffered heavy bleeding. His condition deteriorated and he eventually died.
The identity of the practitioner who allegedly advised the family had not been confirmed at the time of the report. Local residents said the person was believed to live in a hilly area around Barautthan-Shahmirpur in Karnaphuli.
Neighbour Mohammad Sakib said residents became aware of what was happening after seeing Abdullah tied up inside the house and being struck with a stick. They reportedly urged the family to stop, but their appeals were ignored.
According to Sakib, the family members instead rebuked the neighbours and told them not to interfere.
The incident has caused concern in the area, with residents alarmed by the circumstances surrounding the young man’s death. The case has also raised questions about the dangers of relying on physically harmful practices as a form of treatment, particularly when dealing with people who require medical care and support.
Police are investigating the circumstances of the death, including the actions of Abdullah’s parents and the role of the traditional healer. The post-mortem examination is expected to provide further evidence regarding the nature and extent of his injuries.
Authorities have yet to confirm whether the traditional healer will be identified and questioned as part of the investigation. Further legal action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation and the post-mortem examination.
