Police have arrested two men in connection with the rape and murder of a woman in Keraniganj, Dhaka, in a case that has shocked the local community. The accused — Md Riaz and his father Farid Mia — were detained during coordinated raids in different areas of Sunamganj on Saturday night. Police also recovered the gold ornaments belonging to the victim, Salma, which were reportedly taken during the crime.
According to the preliminary police report, Salma was alone on the night of November 25 when Riaz assaulted her. Fearing that the rape would be exposed, he allegedly killed her and hid the body inside the house. As the days passed and the odor spread, the body was set on fire in an attempt to destroy evidence. Locals noticed smoke coming from the house and alerted the police and fire service, who entered the locked home and recovered Salma’s burnt remains.
Investigators said that the arrests were made using information technology tracking, leading officers to Sunamganj, where both suspects were apprehended. During initial interrogation, Riaz reportedly confessed to the rape and murder and indicated a willingness to make a formal statement in court. Police have not yet disclosed further information about the father’s involvement beyond statements that both were present during efforts to conceal the crime.
The killing underscores ongoing concerns about gender-based violence, the vulnerability of women living alone, and the need for timely intervention in cases where neighbors observe signs of danger or irregularity. As the investigation proceeds, demands for accountability and a transparent legal process continue to grow, with many calling for stronger community and institutional mechanisms to prevent such acts of violence.
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