Six people have died and two others remain hospitalized after consuming toxic bootleg alcohol in Rangpur over the last three days. Police have arrested a suspected narcotics dealer in connection with the fatalities.
The most recent deaths occurred Tuesday night. The victims, identified as Abdul Malek of Badarganj and Rashedul Islam of Rangpur Sadar, died at Rangpur Medical College Hospital.
The incident began Sunday night when a group consumed illicit spirits at the house of a local dealer in the Shyampurhat area of Badarganj. Three men—Alamgir Hossain, Sohel Mia, and Jannat Ali—died shortly after. A sixth victim, Manik Chandra Roy, died on Monday evening in the Hazirhat area.
Police have arrested Zainul Abedin, a resident of Badarganj, who is accused of selling the lethal brew. Preliminary investigations suggest the toxic substance may have been sourced from a local homeopathic practitioner’s chamber.
"We have raided the practitioner's chamber and collected evidence," said Rangpur District Police Superintendent Marufat Hossain. "The investigation is ongoing to identify the full supply chain of these toxic spirits."
Two separate cases have been filed at Badarganj and Hazirhat police stations. Authorities are urging anyone who feels ill after consuming similar substances to seek immediate medical attention.
