Rickshaw-van puller injured in explosion while opening parcel in Kushtia

A rickshaw-van puller was seriously injured in an explosion in Kushtia after attempting to open a parcel reportedly given to him by two unidentified men for delivery.

The incident took place at around 10pm yesterday (27 April) in the Lahini Bottala area of the town.

The injured man, Nasir Sheikh, 50, son of Baher Sheikh of Lahini Karmakarpara, is receiving treatment at Kushtia General Hospital.

Police and local residents said two unidentified men handed a small carton to Nasir in the evening and asked him to deliver the parcel to Hamidul Islam, a resident of Lahini.

They introduced themselves as car drivers and acquaintances of Hamidul, and paid Nasir Tk30 as fare before leaving the area.

When Nasir took the carton to Hamidul's house, Hamidul refused to accept it, saying he had not ordered any parcel and knew nothing about it.

Later, Nasir brought the carton back to Lahini Bottala.

According to witnesses, he began opening the parcel with scissors in front of locals. After removing the tape, a smaller box was found inside.

When the box was turned over and opened, it exploded with a loud sound.

Nasir sustained serious injuries in the blast. Part of a refrigerator in a nearby shop was also damaged.

Locals rescued him and took him to Kushtia General Hospital. The incident caused panic in the area.

Hamidul Islam said he became suspicious after hearing that unknown people had sent a parcel in his name and therefore refused to receive it.

Kushtia General Hospital Residential Medical Officer Dr Hossain Imam said the injured man suffered deep wounds to the lower part of his body. He is now out of danger and under close observation.

Officer-in-Charge of Kushtia Model Police Station Kabir Hossain Matubbar said police visited the scene after receiving information.

He said the matter was being investigated and legal action would be taken after examining what was inside the parcel and identifying those who sent it.