Crew member first killed master over grievances, then others on cargo vessel: RAB
The suspect, Akash Mondol, alias Irfan, arrested last night in Chitalmari, Bagerhat, confessed to the murders during initial interrogation
The seven crew members of the cargo vessel MV Al-Bakhera were hacked to death by a colleague after he had drugged them to commit the murders, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has said.
The suspect, Akash Mondol alias Irfan, 26, arrested Tuesday night in Chitalmari, Bagerhat, confessed to the murders during initial interrogation, reads a RAB press statement released today (25 December).
During interrogation, Akash said he planned and executed the murders after getting frustrated with the vessel's master over delayed payments, withheld allowances, and the lack of leave for the crew.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
On Sunday, the MV Al-Bakhera, carrying 720 tonnes of urea fertiliser, set sail from Chattogram for Baghabari in Sirajganj. That evening, Akash mixed 30 sleeping pills into the curry served as the crew's night meal. All except the helmsman Jewel and Akash consumed the meal and went to sleep
At approximately 3:30am on Monday, Akash began his attack.
Using a weapon found onboard, he first hacked the vessel's master to death. Fearing discovery, he then attacked the other crew members, killing seven and leaving one survivor, Jewel, injured.
After the killings, Akash operated the vessel until it became stuck in the Majhirchar area of Haimchar, Chandpur. He fled the scene aboard a passing trawler, claiming he needed to visit a market
RAB apprehended Akash during a joint operation involving its intelligence branch and local units. Evidence recovered included blood-stained clothing, gloves, sleeping pill sheets, and seven mobile phones, five of which belonged to the deceased
RAB's press statement confirmed that Akash had been employed on the vessel for eight months. He described the ship's master as abusive and dismissive, often withholding salaries and allowances.
Akash alleged that his colleagues were too afraid to protest, which led him to plan the murders.
The deceased crew members are Golam Kibria (master), Salauddin Molla (driver), Sajibul Islam (greaser), Sheikh Sabuj (lascars), Rana Kazi (cook), Majedul Islam, and Aminul Islam Munshi
The lone survivor, Jewel, remains hospitalised with serious injuries.
The vessel's owner, Mahbub Morshed, filed a case at the Haimchar Police Station on Tuesday.
RAB said further investigation is underway to confirm Akash's statements and motives.
