Drug addict sets fire to 11 houses in Laxmipur

Thirteen families were left homeless after a drug-addicted youth allegedly set fire to his own house, triggering a blaze that destroyed 11 houses and two roadside shops in Raipur upazila of Laxmipur early Sunday (September 6).

The fire broke out around 4:30am at Langra Bepari residence in the Basabari area, according to police and local residents.

They said Sohel Hossain, who is allegedly addicted to drugs, had frequently quarrelled with his family over money to buy drugs. Following an argument early Sunday, he allegedly poured petrol inside his house and set it on fire.

The flames quickly spread to neighbouring structures, destroying 11 residential units and kitchens, as well as two roadside shops.

Two firefighting units from Raipur and Laxmipur brought the blaze under control after about two hours. The extent of the financial damage was not immediately known.

Angry locals later caught Sohel and beat him before handing him over to police. He was taken to a hospital in critical condition and is receiving treatment under police custody.

Laxmipur Fire Service Station Officer Ranjit Kumar Das confirmed the incident and said an assessment was under way to determine the total damage.

Md Nizam Uddin Bhuiyan, officer-in-charge (OC) of Raipur police station, said, "Police rescued Sohel from the mob and detained him. He is currently undergoing treatment."

Raipur Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mehedi Hasan Kawsar, accompanied by local political leaders, visited the affected area and assured the families of immediate assistance.