AL leader Tarik Rifat dies of 'heart attack' in Gaibandha jail custody

Awami League (AL) leader Tarik Rifat died of a heart attack while being taken to Gaibandha General Hospital at 5:00pm on Sunday (November 23), confirmed Gaibandha Jail Superintendent Anwar Hossain.

Rifat, 50, son of former Rajahar Union chairman Abu Taher Mia, was the union Awami League’s finance secretary and convener of the Upazila Awami Muktijoddha Projonmo League.

He was arrested on November 17 in three explosive-related cases and had been treated at Rangpur Medical College Hospital due to health issues. On Sunday, after release from Rangpur and transfer to Gaibandha Jail, he fell ill and was rushed to the hospital, where he passed away.

Gaibandha police said he was arrested in connection with attacks on Jamaat offices and arson. His medical certificate from Rangpur indicated heart disease and other health complications.