Police have arrested three individuals in connection with the murder of four members of a family in Naogaon, saying the killings were planned over a long-standing land dispute.
At a press briefing on Wednesday, Superintendent of Police Mohammad Tarikul Islam said investigators had uncovered evidence indicating the murders were premeditated and driven by disputes over property inheritance.
The arrests were made in Niamatpur, where the victims- Habibur Rahman, 32, his wife Popy Sultana, 25, and their two children-were found dead at their home in Bahadurpur village earlier this week.
Those detained include Sabuj Rana, 25, the victim’s nephew, along with his brother-in-law Shahidul Islam and Shahidul’s son Shahin Mondol. Police said sharp weapons, including a sickle and a knife believed to have been used in the attack, were recovered during the operation.
According to investigators, tensions had been simmering within the family over land distribution. Police said Habibur had been allocated a significantly larger share of property-around 13 bighas- while his sisters received smaller portions, leading to resentment among family members.
The SP said the suspects allegedly conspired to eliminate Habibur and his heirs to gain control over the land. On the night of the incident, they reportedly entered the house after ensuring other occupants were unable to intervene, and carried out the killings in stages.
Police said Habibur was attacked first, followed by his wife and later their children. Investigators described the crime as carefully planned, with weapons later hidden near a house and in a nearby pond before being recovered.
Authorities also confirmed that additional individuals are being questioned, though their identities have not been disclosed for investigative reasons. Two of the detained suspects have given confessional statements, police said.
A murder case has been filed with the local police station by the father of one of the victims. Following the incident, angry residents reportedly set fire to the house of one suspect, prompting police to deploy additional forces in the area to maintain order.
Officials said the arrested individuals will be produced before a court, where investigators will seek remand for further questioning as the probe continues.
KKH/TZ/SA
