A Hindu man was beaten to death by a group of villagers in Bangladesh – the second targeted incident against the minority community – on Wednesday night, The Daily Star reported, citing police officials. The incident was reported in Rajbari district, it said.
The victim, identified as Amrit Mondal, was found in a critical condition by the local police. He reportedly died while undergoing treatment at the Pangsha Upazila Health Complex, the news report said.
Dipu Chandra Das was killed over unverified blasphemy claims
The incident comes just days after the lynching of 27-year-old Dipu Chandra Das, over unverified blasphemy claims.
Amrit Mondal, who is also known as Samrat, was accused of extortion, the police said, adding that he had at least two cases registered against him, including a murder case. The report quoting police said that one of Samrat’s associates have been detained after two firearms were recovered from his possession, including a pistol and a locally made one-shooter gun.
Police officials said Samrat had at least two cases registered against him, including a murder case. Locals told police that Samrat had allegedly been running a criminal gang and was involved in extortion and other illegal activities. They claimed he had remained in hiding in India for a long period before recently returning to the village.
Samrat accused of extortion by villagers
As per The Daily Star report, Samrat demanded extortion money from a local resident, Shahidul Islam. On Wednesday night, he along with his associates reportedly went to Shahidul’s house to collect the money. The family raised an alarm by shouting “robbers”, after which the villagers gathered and assaulted Samrat. While his associates managed to flee, Samrat was caught with weapons and later handed over to the police, the Daily Star report said.
This the second incident when a Hindu man was lynched by a mob in the neighbouring country. On Thursday, Dipu Chandra Das, a young garment factory worker in Bhaluka Upazila, was beaten to death allegedly for making derogatory remarks about Prophet Muhammad.
Police said his body was tied to a tree and set on fire. Seven people have been arrested in connection with the incident.