Apratim Murder: 4 Arrested and Confess, Says Home Minister
Four individuals have been arrested in connection with the murder of Mr. Ishayat Shahriar Apratim, a 13-year-old seventh-grade student from Comilla, according to Home Minister Mr. Salahuddin Ahmad. The victim, a student at Border Guard Public School, disappeared on Friday afternoon, September 18, after leaving home with his mother’s iPhone to take photos with friends. Law enforcement authorities recovered his body nearly 22 hours later from a jungle area near Lalmai Hill in Sananda village, adjacent to Comilla University. The victim’s mother, Ms. Nahida Begum, is an associate professor in the Department of Bangla at Comilla University, adding a poignant note to the tragic loss.
Law enforcement agencies demonstrated swift operational efficiency by apprehending all four suspects within 12 hours of initiating the investigation. According to the Home Minister, the suspects resemble a juvenile gang and were acquainted with the victim despite being five to ten years older. Authorities are currently verifying their National Identification (NID) cards to determine their precise ages, as preliminary assessments suggest two are likely over 18 years old while one may be a minor. A critical breakthrough occurred when police successfully recovered the victim’s missing iPhone from the possession of the prime suspect, identified as Mr. Tuhin.
The Home Minister commended the rapid response of the police and confirmed that all primary evidence has been gathered for the upcoming judicial proceedings. Describing the incident as deeply tragic, Minister Mr. Salahuddin Ahmad remarked during a media briefing at the Secretariat, ‘The entire country is deeply grieved by this loss. The victim was a minor, around 13 years of age. Within 24 hours of his disappearance, his body was recovered.’ He further confirmed that the arrestees have already admitted to their involvement in the crime, stating, ‘All suspects were apprehended within 12 hours. They have admitted to the crime, and the legal process is underway.’
The government has assured the public that legal procedures are being expedited to ensure swift justice for the victim’s family. Police are currently completing necessary legal formalities, including recording statements under Section 164 and finalizing forensic analysis following the victim’s burial. Drawing parallels to previous fast-tracked trials, the Home Minister expressed strong optimism regarding the timeline of the judicial process, stating, ‘We hope to conclude the judicial proceedings rapidly, similar to the resolution in the Ramisa murder case. While the final verdict rests with the court, we will assist by completing all legal procedures and submitting the charge sheet promptly.’
