Fisherman dies after being beaten for reporting late to work in Kuakata

A fisherman has died following the assault of three fishermen in Alipur fish harbour of Kuakata, Patuakhali, over allegations of reporting late to work. The incident took place around 10:00pm on Thursday (4 September) at the Al-Amin wholesale depot of Alipur landing station.

The deceased was identified as Helal Hawlader, son of Harun Hawlader of Tuskhali village in Pirojpur district. The other two fishermen are Saddam Akon (18) and Asadul Hawlader (20), both from the same area.

According to police and family sources, after being beaten, the three fishermen were forced to go fishing in the sea. Helal fell ill while at sea and was brought back by trawler. Allegations suggest he was not taken to hospital at night despite being in critical condition. Instead, he was taken the next morning (Friday), by which time his condition had worsened, and he later died on the same day.

Dr Mahmudul Hasan Apu, medical officer at Kalapara 50-bed hospital, said Helal was referred to Barishal due to his critical state, but he died on the way.

Police have initially identified trawler owner Montu Farazi (48), associate Sohag Hawlader (30) and Mesharaf as the accused but could not arrest them yet. Mahipur police station OC Mahmud Hasan said the body has been sent to Patuakhali morgue for autopsy, and preparations are underway to file a murder case.