Youth killed, another injured in 'gunfight' with RAB in Barishal

A was killed and another youth was injured in a shooting incident involving the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) in Agailjhara Upazila of Barishal last night (21 April).

The deceased were identified as Siam Molla, 22, and the injured as Rakib Molla, 27.

The incident took place at around 5:30pm yesterday when a team of RAB went to the Saheberhat area to arrest suspected drug dealers, confirmed Agailjhara Police Station Officer-in-Charge Waliul Islam.

Sensing their presence the "drug peddlers" attacked the RAB members and they returned fire in self-defence, resulting in the two youths being shot, said the OC.

Both Siam and Rakib were rushed to the Gournadi Upazila Health Complex, where Siam was pronounced dead. Rakib was later transferred to Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital (SBMC) in critical condition, police said.

RAB member Zakir Hossain, 35, was also injured during the fight and is currently receiving treatment at a local hospital.

However, the RAB is yet to issue any official statement regarding the matter.

Siam was the son of Ripon Molla from Baherghat village in Uzirpur Upazila. Injured Rakib is also from the same village.

However, Agailjhara police Sub-Inspector Abdullah Al Mamun, who was present at the scene, said, "A group of plainclothed individuals approached the house of Gawhar Howlader in Saheberhat when locals, mistaking them for criminals, launched an attack. It was later revealed they were law enforcement personnel.

"One person died and another was injured after shots were fired in self-defence. However, we're yet to confirm the identity of the law enforcement team involved."

Also, our reporter independently verified there was no general diary or case filed against the deceased or the injured.