Bhaluka, Bangladesh — A shooting incident at a garment factory on Monday evening claimed the life of a 40-year-old security guard, raising concerns about workplace safety and the use of firearms by private security personnel. Police suspect that the shooting was accidental, involving one guard inadvertently discharging his weapon.
The victim, identified as Bajendra Biswas, was employed by the Ansar force, a government-mandated security agency. The shooting took place at Sultana Sweaters Limited, located in the Mehrabari area of Bhaluka upazila within the Mymensingh district. Witnesses reported that at the time of the incident, approximately 20 Ansar members were stationed at the factory.
Details surrounding the event indicate that Biswas was seated alongside his colleague, 22-year-old Noman Mia, when Mia’s shotgun unexpectedly went off, striking Biswas in the left thigh. Emergency response teams quickly transported Biswas to the nearby Bhaluka Upazila Health Complex, but he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Authorities quickly apprehended Mia following the shooting. He is the son of Lutfur Rahman from the Baluturi Bazar area of Sunamganj. The investigation has been initiated to clarify the circumstances surrounding the shooting and to determine whether negligence or other complicating factors were at play.
In his role, Bajendra Biswas was part of the Ansar and Village Defence Party, which provides security services for various institutions including factories, financial establishments, and public events. Typically, Ansar members may be armed, particularly in environments recognized as potentially dangerous.
Police officer-in-charge Zahidul Islam confirmed the incident and stated that investigators were at the scene to gather evidence. The victim’s body has been sent for a post-mortem examination at the Mymensingh Medical College Hospital.
As investigations continue, local authorities have urged witnesses to come forward to provide statements. They emphasized the seriousness of the situation and the need for transparency in the inquiry.
This tragic event underscores the ongoing concerns regarding firearm safety and the protocols in place for armed personnel, especially in civilian environments. It raises questions about how security measures are enforced in places like garment factories, which play a significant role in Bangladesh’s economy.
The situation is being closely monitored by the community, and updates regarding the investigation and any subsequent legal action will be provided as they become available.