Ex-Chhatra League leader dies in Patuakhali jail custody

A former local leader of the Bangladesh Chhatra League died on Friday while undergoing treatment after falling ill in custody at Patuakhali District Jail.

Shafiqul Islam Khan, former president of Dumki upazila unit of Chhatra League, breathed his last at around 4:20pm at Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital, prison officials said.

He was the son of the late Habibur Rahman Khan of Sreerampur union in Dumki.

According to jail authorities, Khan suddenly became ill on Friday afternoon and was first taken to Patuakhali Medical College Hospital. As his condition deteriorated, he was referred to Barishal for advanced treatment, where he died shortly after admission.

Prison physician Dr Md Zia said Khan had long been suffering from heart disease and had previously been sent to Barishal and Dhaka for specialised treatment. His condition had remained critical in recent days.

Jailer Md Abdur Rab Mia said blockages had been detected in his heart, and he had been receiving regular medical care. He was rushed to hospital immediately after falling sick on Friday.

Prison sources said Khan had been sent to Patuakhali District Jail on August 11, 2025, in connection with a political case. His body remains at Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital and will be handed over to his family following completion of legal formalities.