6 sentenced to life imprisonment in Sylhet murder case

Six individuals were sentenced to life imprisonment on charges of murdering in Balaganj upazila in Sylhet on 2006.

The verdict was delivered by Judge Shayla Sharmin of Sylhet Additional District and Sessions Judge Court-4 on Sunday.

Additionally, one accused received a one-year sentence, while five others were acquitted due to lack of evidence.

The six who received life sentences were each fined Tk 50,000, with an additional year of rigorous imprisonment if unpaid. The individual with a one-year sentence was fined Tk 5,000, with an additional three months in prison if unpaid.

The case dates back to May 12, 2006, when Fakhrul Islam, 35, was attacked by the accused due to personal enmities and pending legal disputes while he was on his way to Jummah prayers. The attackers reportedly ambushed him near Khayshapara Madrasah, injuring him fatally with locally made weapons. Fakhrul’s brother and sister, who attempted to intervene, were also severely injured in the attack.

Although locals transported the victims to Sylhet Osmani Medical College Hospital, Fakhrul was declared dead upon arrival.

Following the incident, Fakhrul’s brother, Sirajul Islam, filed a murder case against 14 individuals at Balaganj Police Station.

After a lengthy investigation, charges were filed against 14 accused in July 2006.

The court proceedings began in 2008, with 21 witnesses testifying in the case.

Representing the prosecution was Additional Public Prosecutor Advocate Jalal Uddin, while Advocate Golam Ehya Chowdhury Suhel defended the accused.