Syrian-born dual national found dead in rented flat in Patuakhali

Police have recovered the body of a Syrian-born Bangladeshi dual citizen from a rented apartment in Patuakhali town, with authorities launching an investigation to determine the cause of death.

The deceased was identified as Majed Al Khatib, 73, who had been living alone in a rented house in the Nawabpara area of Patuakhali for an extended period. His body was recovered around 9:00pm on Friday (July 24) after police broke open the door to his room.

According to police and local sources, the incident came to light when the person who regularly delivered his meals found the room locked from the inside. After repeated attempts to contact him went unanswered, the matter was reported to the landlord, who subsequently informed the police.

A team from Patuakhali Sadar Police Station arrived at the scene, forced open the door and found Majed Al Khatib lying motionless on his bed. Officers later confirmed his death.

Police said Majed Al Khatib was originally a Syrian national but had obtained Bangladeshi dual citizenship. He possessed a Bangladeshi national identity card, and several members of his family are also residing in Bangladesh.

Landlord K.M. Shahadat Khan said the deceased had been living in the rented apartment for a long time and was known as a quiet and courteous person. He added that family members would occasionally visit him.

Confirming the incident, Officer-in-Charge (OC) Moniruzzaman of Patuakhali Sadar Police Station said the body had been sent to the Patuakhali Medical College Hospital morgue for an autopsy.

"The deceased's son has already arrived in Patuakhali. We are investigating the incident, and the exact cause of death will be determined after receiving the post-mortem report," the OC said.

Police said further legal action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.