8 to die for murder in Patuakhali

Judge M A Matin at a crowded courtroom handed down the death sentence Kalam Mridha, Zakir Mridha, Selim Kazi, Mamun Kazi, Sumon Kazi, Kuddus Mridha, Samir and Badal. Among them Mamun Kazi, Sumon Kazi, Kuddus Mridha, Samir and Badal are absconding.

The court acquitted five persons in the case. They are Shahidul Mridha, Chhoto Mamun, Nurullah, Nur Elahi and Alamgir Mridha.

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Talking to this correspondent after the verdict, Zahir's parents Hafizur Rahman and Firoza Begum expressed satisfaction at the verdict and hoped that it would be upheld by higher court and executed as early as possible.

The defense side said they will appeal to higher court.

Zahirul Islam Zahir was a staff at the bus counter. He was hacked and critically injured following a dispute. He died at Patuakhali General Hospital.

Zahir's father Hafizur Rahman lodged a murder case against 15 people on June 4, 1999 with Patuakhali Sadar thana.

Sub-inspector Md. Selim on November 10 the same year chargesheeted 13 of the accused.

The home ministry sent the case to the Barisal STT on August 13 last year.

The court examined 20 witnesses in the case.