Swapan Kumar Singh :

A wave of concern has spread across Lakhai Upazila in Habiganj after the deaths of five people, including a husband and wife, allegedly following the consumption of an alcohol-based liquid. Police have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the deaths.

The deceased have been identified as Sudeb Das (60) and Sujit Das (35) of Morakori village, Nandalal Ruidas (52) and his wife Subi Ruidas (40) of Bhadikara village, and Ranjit Kuri (36) of Chowdhury Bazar area in Habiganj town.

According to local sources, several individuals fell ill after consuming an alcohol-containing liquid on Tuesday night. Subsequently, three of them died while undergoing treatment or on their way to medical facilities, while the other two reportedly died in their respective villages.

Preliminary information indicates that Sujit Das died while being taken to Brahmanbaria District Sadar Hospital. Sudeb Das passed away while receiving treatment at Habiganj Sadar Modern Hospital, while Ranjit Kuri died on the way to Dhaka for advanced medical care. The deaths of Nandalal Ruidas and his wife Subi Ruidas were confirmed locally.

Lakhai Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Sharif Ahmed said the incident is being investigated with utmost importance. Authorities are examining the source of the liquid consumed, the circumstances surrounding the deaths, and whether any toxic substances were involved. One body has been sent to the morgue for an autopsy, while information regarding the other deaths is being verified.

Dr. Aminul Haque Sarkar, Superintendent of Habiganj Sadar Modern Hospital, said the exact cause of death can only be confirmed after the autopsy report is completed.

Meanwhile, local residents claim that the owner of a homeopathic pharmacy allegedly linked to the incident has not been seen in the area since the deaths occurred. However, police have not made any official statement regarding this claim.

Police said further legal action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation and the autopsy report.