Rape accused dies while being taken to police station

A man arrested on allegations of raping an 11-year-old girl in Faridganj Upazila of Chandpur died while being transported to the police station, according to police.

Authorities believe he may have suffered a heart attack, although the exact cause of death will be determined after a post-mortem examination.

The incident was confirmed on Thursday by Faridganj Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Mohammad Ershad Ullah.

The deceased, Mizanur Rahman, 55, was a resident of Karaitali village under Paikpara South Union and worked as a teacher at a local maktab (religious school).

Police said Mizanur was arrested late Wednesday night in connection with a child rape case.

While being taken to the police station, he suddenly became unconscious. Officers immediately took him to Faridganj Upazila Health Complex, where doctors declared him dead.

Dr. Asaduzzaman Jewel, the Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer, said Mizanur had already died before arriving at the hospital.

Initial observations suggest he suffered a cardiac arrest, but the final cause of death will be confirmed after the autopsy report.

According to the victim's father, Mizanur allegedly raped his daughter on Monday.

After informing the local Union Parishad chairman, he was advised to file a complaint with the police. A formal rape case was then lodged at Faridganj Police Station on Wednesday night.

Local sources further alleged that the accused's brother-in-law, former Union Parishad member Ali Haidar Ujjal, attempted to persuade the victim's father to withdraw the matter by offering Tk15,000.

The family proceeded with filing the case after the allegation gained attention on social media.

OC Mohammad Ershad Ullah said the body would be handed over to the family after completion of the necessary legal formalities.

He added that the investigation into the alleged rape and the related legal proceedings will continue despite the suspect's death.