Shopkeeper stabbed to death in Rajshahi over alleged extortion demand

A grocery shop owner was stabbed to death in Rajshahi’s Puthia upazila this morning, allegedly over a dispute involving extortion money.

The deceased was identified as Mamunur Rashid Jewel, 48, of Krishnapur village, said Puthia Police Station Officer-in-Charge Faridul Islam.

Citing locals, the OC said Jewel was sitting inside his shop at Council Bazar under Puthia municipality when the incident occurred. One Md Mainul, 23, of Kathalbari village, entered the shop and demanded money. An argument ensued, which escalated into a scuffle. At one stage, Mainul stabbed Jewel in the chest with a knife, leaving him critically injured.

Locals rushed Jewel to Puthia Upazila Health Complex, where the on-duty doctor declared him dead.

Following the incident, locals chased and caught the suspect, beat him, and tied him to a pillar. Police later rescued him from the scene and took him into custody.

The OC said the accused is being interrogated and an autopsy will be carried out for the body.