DHAKA: A leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Mohammad Babul Mia, was brutally beaten to death in front of his wife in Dhamrai, Dhaka, on Sunday afternoon.

Babul, a former vice-president of BNP’s Kulla union unit and a three-time UP member, was attacked around 1.30 PM in the Boro Kushiara area.

His wife, Yasmin Begum, said that although her husband was not involved in any disputes, some local criminals had been threatening them. The conflict was related to Akshirnagar Housing, a real estate matter.

While Babul and his wife were harvesting mustard near the area, a group led by Afsar, Arshad, and Monir attacked him with sticks and metal pipes. Yasmin said they brutally beat him, even gouging out his eyes. When she and some locals tried to help, the attackers stopped them and left only after Babul lost consciousness.

He was taken to Savar Enam Medical College Hospital, where doctors declared him dead. Dr. Ejaz from the emergency department confirmed that Babul had severe injuries to his head, face, and legs.

Locals believe an old dispute over a pond might have been the reason behind the attack. Police are investigating the case, and efforts are being made to arrest the attackers.

Babul’s wife, Yasmin, said she would file a case once she is able to.