Narayanganj UP member killed in mob beating over 'extortion attempt'

A union parishad member in Araihazar upazila of Narayanganj was killed today in a mob beating, allegedly by locals, over his involvement in criminal activities, including extortion.

The incident happened in the morning at Baliapara area of Brahammandi union of the upazila, said Araihazar Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Khandaker Nasir Uddin.

The deceased was identified as Sohel Rana, 38, Ward-3 member of Brahammandi union.

Citing the initial investigation, OC Nasir said an altercation ensued between Sohel and the family members of one Sharif Hossain this morning after Sohel tried to extort money from Sharif for his newly built market in Baliapara area.

At one stage, locals gathered at the scene and held Sohel.

"Sohel Rana was involved in criminal activities. They tied him up and beat him, leaving him dead," the OC added.

Sharif Hossain, could not be reached for comments despite several attempts.

Contacted, Jannat Akter Chaity, wife of deceased Sohel's brother, said the allegations of extortion attempt brought against Sohel were baseless.

"Sohel had been vocal against some local drug dealers, which led to his killing," she added.

The body was sent to Narayanganj General Hospital for an autopsy, OC Nasir said further.

According to police, Sohel had at least 15 cases filed against him on various charges, including drug trafficking, robbery, and extortion. On June 13, he was arrested during a raid by Rapid Action Battalion (Rab-11) in Cumilla's Daudkandi. He was later released on bail.

Locals said Sohel was involved in Awami League politics and also served as an executive member of Brahammandi union Ward-3 unit of the party.

The OC added that legal action is underway over Sohel's death.