Teen beaten to death in Fatikchhari over theft allegation

A 15-year-old schoolboy was beaten to death in a mob attack on suspicion of theft in Fatikchhari upazila, Chattogram, early on Friday (August 22). Two others, Muhammad Manik and Muhammad Rahat, were seriously injured in the attack. The incident occurred in the Cheingar Setu area of Kanchannagar Union, and all three victims were friends of the same age.

According to local residents and police sources, Rihan and his two friends were returning from a relative’s house when, around 3.00am, seven to eight youths chased them, suspecting them of theft. Fearing for their lives, the boys took shelter in an under-construction building, but the attackers caught them, tied them up with ropes on the bridge, and beat them severely. Rihan died at the scene, while Manik and Rahat were rescued by locals and taken to the hospital.

Locals, citing the family, said Rihan and his friends were returning from a relative’s house when they were deliberately targeted by a mob.

Police believe the attack was not a case of mob justice over theft but was likely motivated by an old personal grudge. Two individuals have been detained for questioning. Rihan’s body has been sent to the morgue of Chattogram Medical College Hospital for autopsy.

Nur Ahmed, Officer-in-Charge of Fatikchhari Police Station, said the investigation is ongoing, and efforts are underway to apprehend the main attackers. He also urged the deceased boy’s family to file a formal case.