In Dhaka's Old Dhaka, the murder of a betel leaf vendor has taken a new turn as the prime accused, Mahin, claims the attack was premeditated by fugitive Sarwar Hossain Titu. Mahin stated in court on Sunday that Titu, not him, orchestrated the brutal killing due to a long-standing business dispute with the victim, Sohag.According to Mahin’s confession recorded by Metropolitan Magistrate Mohammad Mahbubur Rahman, Titu had threatened Sohag on the day of the murder. Enraged, Sohag attacked Titu and his associates, leading to a violent response. Mahin denied any personal conflict with Sohag, claiming Titu was the mastermind behind the assault.
Mahin revealed that since the previous Awami League government, Sohag had controlled the betel leaf business, while he and Titu were sidelined. After the government changed, they sought to regain control, pressuring Sohag to step back. On the day of the murder, they threatened Sohag over the business, provoking his retaliation and subsequent brutal killing.
Mahin explained that the attackers, including Titu, used stones because they were furious with Sohag, who had harassed them repeatedly in the past. The long-held grudge culminated in the premeditated murder.
Investigating sources confirm that Titu and Mahin had a prolonged dispute over controlling the betel leaf business, which led to the planned murder. The key accused, Sarwar Hossain Titu, remains at large, and police continue their search.
Mohiuddin Mia, the investigating officer and OC of Kotwali Police Station, stated that nine suspects have been arrested, with five confessing to their involvement. Their statements are under verification, and efforts to apprehend the remaining accused are ongoing.
The court had previously granted Mahin five days of remand on July 10 and an additional five days on July 15. So far, nine individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, including Mahin, Titon Gazi, Alomgir, Monir (alias Lumba Monir), Tarek Rahman Robin, Sojib Barman, Rajib Barman, Nannu Kazi, and Rijwan Uddin (alias Avijit Basu). On July 17, Lumba Monir, Alomgir, and Titon confessed, followed by Sojib Barman on July 19. Rajib Barman remains in custody after his remand ended.
