Local people blocked the Sunamganj-Sylhet Highway on Monday protesting the alleged death of a 40-year-old man in police custody.
The protest took place around noon in the Paglabazar area of Shantiganj causing a long tailback on the highway for three hours.
The deceased was identified as Ujir Mia, hailing from Shatru Mardan village of the upazila.
He was arrested by Santiganj police in a theft case on February 9 and was produced before a court the following day.
However, Ujir Mia got bail on February 11 and was admitted to Kaitak Hospital of Chhatak after falling sick, said Kazi Muktadir Hossain, officer-in-charge (OC) of Shantiganj police station.
He died on Monday while undergoing treatment at the hospital.
"The doctor can explain the cause of his death," said the OC.
Ujir's brother Dalim Mia has alleged that it was a custodial death.
Following the death, outraged local people blocked the highway with the body of Ujir Mia with them.
On information, Abu Saeed, Sunamganj additional superintendent of police, and Anwar-ul-Halim, additional district magistrate, rushed to the spot.
They assured the protesters that action would be taken against those responsible for Ujir’s death, subject to an investigation. The agitators lifted the blockade after getting assurance.