Bullets meant for BNP leader hit shopkeeper in Noakhali

A shopkeeper was shot and seriously injured after gunmen allegedly targeted a local BNP leader in Begumganj upazila of Noakhali.

The attack took place around 11:45pm near Hawkers Market in the Chowmuhani Bazar area late Thursday (August 6).

The victim, Yasin Sentu, 45, sustained bullet wounds to his chest and hand. He was initially taken to Noakhali General Hospital before being transferred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment.

According to police, the intended target was Abul Kashem, former religious affairs secretary of the Noakhali district BNP. Investigators said Kashem had just left the Hawkers Cooperative Association office with Sentu and was standing outside a tea stall when two assailants arrived on a motorcycle and opened fire.

Police said one of the people accompanying Kashem pushed him aside moments before the shots were fired, causing the bullets to miss their intended target and strike Sentu instead.

Authorities said the attackers fled the scene immediately after the shooting.

Local sources said Kashem, in addition to his political activities, has long served as president of the Noakhali National Hawkers Cooperative Society Ltd.

Mohammad Shahinuzzaman, officer-in-charge (OC) of Begumganj Police Station, said, "The motive behind the attack remains unclear. Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage from nearby areas to identify the assailants."

"Legal action will be taken following an investigation and receipt of a formal complaint," he added.