Staff Reporter:
Three people have died and another remains in critical condition after allegedly consuming intoxicating alcohol in Mithapukur upazila of Rangpur district, prompting an investigation by local authorities.
The incident occurred in Balarhat union, where several individuals reportedly consumed a prohibited alcoholic substance on Sunday night before returning to their homes.
The incident came to light on Monday morning, alarming the locals.
The deceased were identified as Sattar Mia, 60, son of late Tamiz Uddin of Satbhenti Enayetpur village, Huzur Ali, 45, son of late Matiar Mia of Buzruk Jhalai area, and Md. Saju Mia, 55, son of late Kafur Uddin of Sangrampur Beltala area.
The critically ill survivor is Ershad Mia, 40, son of late Sultan Ali of Buzruk Jhalai Pakarmatha area.
According to local sources, the group consumed alcohol at Balarhat Bazar on Sunday night. Shortly after returning home, they became seriously ill. One died at home, while two others died during treatment.
Huzur Ali died while receiving treatment at a hospital. However, hospital records reportedly listed the cause of death as cardiac arrest.
Sattar Mia died at his residence in Koyarmari Gucchagram, where he lived with his second wife. His body was later taken to his sister Aklima Begum’s residence in Enayetpur village.
Union Parishad member Suja Mia confirmed the incident, saying the men had consumed rectified spirit before returning home. He added that Saju Mia, who had initially been admitted to Rangpur Medical College Hospital in critical condition, later died during treatment.
Following reports of the deaths, Mithapukur Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md Parvez and police officials visited the area.
Another local representative, UP member Md Mohidul Islam, alleged that the victims had died after consuming alcohol and claimed that family members were attempting to avoid post-mortem examinations.
Mithapukur Police Station Officer-in-Charge Ershad Ahmed said the exact cause of the deaths has not yet been confirmed.
“One individual died of cardiac arrest according to hospital records. Whether the others died from alcohol consumption remains under investigation,” he said.
UNO Parvez said authorities are trying to complete the necessary legal procedures to determine the actual cause of death. Police are continuing their investigation, and further action will be taken based on the findings.
