Double murder shocks Dinhata, probe underway

Cooch Behar: A double murder in Dinhata’s Bhetaguri North Baladanga area on Tuesday night has sent shockwaves through the region.

The deceased, identified as Yusuf Mia (56) and Hasanur Mia (35), were found lying in pools of blood. Locals rushed them to Dinhata Sub Divisional Hospital, where doctors declared them dead.

The circumstances surrounding the deaths remain unclear. A large police force, led by Dinhata SDPO Dhiman Mitra, visited the scene and initiated an investigation. While police initially suggested the two may have killed each other, Hasanur’s family strongly disputed this theory, claiming third-party involvement.

Saira Banu, Hasanur’s wife, stated, “A local called my husband out of the house on Tuesday night, and this tragedy occurred. We’ve filed a police complaint against several people, including members of the local panchayat, in connection with an old dispute. They are responsible for this incident.” However, local panchayat member Zakir Mia refuted the allegations, saying: “These accusations are baseless. Both individuals were habitual criminals recently released from jail. They fought and killed each other.” According to police records, Yusuf and Hasanur were arrested 12 years ago in connection with a robbery. Yusuf remained in custody, while Hasanur secured bail. After his release, Yusuf allegedly attempted to elope with Hasanur’s wife, but she refused. Over the years, Hasanur was arrested multiple times for criminal activities and was in judicial custody for five years before being released five months ago. The police believe hostility between the two escalated in prison.

Cooch Behar Superintendent of Police Dyutiman Bhattacharya said: “Preliminary investigations indicate the two were intoxicated and died following a violent altercation.

The exact cause of death will be confirmed after the autopsy. No formal complaint has been lodged yet.”