A man suspected of being involved in cattle theft was beaten to death by locals in Ichakhada area of Magura on Wednesday morning, police said.

The deceased was identified as Md. Akidul Hossain, 35, son of Shohor Ali, of Pakakanchanpur Purbapara. He was pronounced dead upon arrival at Magura 250-bed Hospital around 8:00 am.

According to local sources, tension has risen in the area due to a recent surge in cow thefts. Around 4:30 am, locals reportedly chased two to three people attempting to steal cows from the Tengyakhali area.

One of the suspects was allegedly caught in Ichakhada Paschimpara, and it is claimed that locals beat him before police arrived.

Police said Akidul was rescued from the spot in an injured condition and taken to the hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

Additional Superintendent of Police Shah Shibli Sadiq said police rescued him after being called through 999.
“There is an existing case of cow theft against him. Investigation is ongoing to determine the facts and identify those involved,” he said.

“A case has been filed at Magura Police Station,” added the officer.

However, the deceased’s family denied the allegations. His wife, Adhifa, said Akidul had no connection with cow theft and had come to Ichakhada market from Dhaka at night. “This is a planned murder,” she claimed.

Their son, Sun Moon also said the theft charges were fabricated and his father was killed in a premeditated manner.

“He returned from Cyprus recently and was engaged in business in Dhaka. He had no involvement in the incident,” he added.