The deceased, Uzzal Hossain, 32, son of late Naim Uddin hailed from Raypara in Vatra union.
According to locals, Uzzal broke into the barn of a local farmer with three accomplices and attempted to steal a cow when the owner, Belal Hossain, noticed their presence and shouted.
After hearing the screams, the locals chased and grabbed Uzzal and beat him up, killing him on the spot. At that time, three of his associates escaped.
Nandigram Police Station Officer-in-Charge Shawkat Kabir, while inspecting the spot on Friday morning, said the body was recovered and sent to the morgue for autopsy.
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He also said legal action will be taken after investigation.
No case was filed till noon.
According to the police, there are several cases against Uzzal including robbery, murder and theft.