A man has been stabbed to death in Sreemangal, Moulvibazar for protesting the verbal abuse of a nine-year-old rape survivor, who is a close relative.
The deceased, Siraj Mia, 45, was a plaintiff in a rape case filed over the incident.
Siraj and his brother, Rahman Mia, were attacked by a local resident, Ahad Ali, on Wednesday night in front of the latter’s corner shop
The men got into a scuffle when Ahad hurled insults at the rape victim while Siraj and Rahman were taking her home after she was discharged from the hospital.
Rahman, who was hurt in the scuffle, is currently undergoing treatment at Moulvibazar Sadar Hospital.
Confirming the matter to Dhaka Tribune, investigating officer of the case, Inspector Md Sohel Rana, said: "A fourth-grader was raped on Tuesday. While her relatives were taking her home from the hospital last night [Wednesday], Ahad Ali verbally abused the girl.
"When the brothers protested the remarks, Ahad attacked them both with a knife and fled the scene," the inspector added.
Hearing their screams, local residents rushed to their rescue and took them to the hospital, where doctors pronounced Siraj dead.
"Police are conducting an extensive drive to apprehend the suspect," said Inspector Sohel.
Siraj's body has been sent to the Moulvibazar Sadar Hospital morgue for autopsy. Police have started the process of filing a murder case over the incident.
Meanwhile, Sreemangal Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Nazrul Islam announced that a Tk50,000 is being offered to anyone who helps to turn in the suspect.
Jamal Mia, who has already been arrested, is the prime accused in the rape case. No connection has yet been found between Ahad Ali and Jamal Mia.