Bank official dies at Bogura rehab centre; family alleges torture

A bank official died at a drug addiction rehabilitation centre in Bogura last night, with his family alleging he was tortured to death, although the facility’s authorities deny the allegations.

“Samiul Hasan Shuvo, 33, senior officer at the Janata Bank’s Dupchanchia branch, died at ‘Mayer Ashroy’ -- a rehabilitation centre in the Sabgram area of Bogura. He was the son of Shafiullah from Kazipara village in Kahaloo upazila. Two employees of the rehabilitation centre have been taken into custody for questioning,” said Bogura Sadar Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md Monirul Islam.

“The body has been sent to morgue for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. No formal written complaint has yet been filed by the family,” the OC added.

According to police and hospital sources, Samiul was taken to Bogura Shaheed Ziaur Rahman Medical College Hospital on Tuesday evening, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.

Zillur Rahman, deputy director of the Bogura Narcotics Control, said Samiul had been admitted to the centre on February 13 for rehabilitation from his long-term addiction.

"The centre’s authority claims Samiul had stopped eating on Tuesday afternoon and became unresponsive in the evening, leading them to rush him to the hospital," he said.

“Authorities are reviewing the facility’s CCTV footage. Legal action would be taken if evidence of criminal negligence or torture is found,” he added.

Samiul’s family alleged he was subjected to torture at the facility. His brother-in-law, ATM Farhad, told local journalists that Samiul was physically healthy, although struggling with mental health issues when he was admitted.

"He was killed through torture. There are injury marks on various parts of his body," Farhad alleged.

The executive director and manager of the rehabilitation centre were unavailable for comment as they are currently in police custody.