Drug addict sets fire in 11 Laxmipur houses

Thirteen families were left destitute after a drug-addicted youth allegedly set fire to his own home, destroying 11 houses and two shops in Raipur upazila of Laxmipur on Sunday (September 6) morning.

The incident occurred at around 4:30 AM at the Langra Bepari residence in the Basabari area under Raipur upazila.

Police and local residents said the accused, Sohel Hossain, was a known drug addict who frequently quarreled with his family over money for drugs. Following an argument, Sohel poured petrol and set his home on fire, which quickly spread to neighboring structures, reducing 11 residential units, kitchens, and two roadside shops to ashes.

On receiving information, two firefighting units from Raipur and Laxmipur arrived at the scene and extinguished the blaze after a two-hour operation.

Angry locals caught Sohel, subjected him to a severe beating, and handed him over to the police. Officers admitted him to a hospital in critical condition.

Laxmipur Fire Service Station Officer Ranjit Kumar Das confirmed the incident and stated that an investigation is underway to assess the total financial loss.

Raipur Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md Nizam Uddin Bhuiyan said police detained Sohel after rescuing him from the mob, adding that he is currently undergoing medical treatment under police custody.

Raipur Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mehedi Hasan Kawsar, along with local political leaders, visited the site and assured affected families of immediate assistance.

-MWRM/SA