‘Serial rapist’ killed in ‘gunfight’ with police in Ctg

An alleged serial child rapist was killed in a "gunfight" with police in Chattogram city's Bayezid Bostami area early today during a police drive.

Police said he was accused in 10 cases filed over rape and molestation with Bayezid Bostami and Akbar Shah police stations.

The deceased was identified as Md Belal Hossen (40), a CNG-run auto rickshaw driver, said police.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) (North) Ashikur Rahman of CMP told The Daily Star, "The gun fight took place at Shanti Nagar-Samabay residential area when police went there to arrest the culprit."

"His cohorts opened fire, sensing the presence of police. Police retaliated, triggering a gunfight," added the ADC.

Later, police recovered the bullet-hit body of Belal from the spot and recovered a light gun, eight rounds of cartridges and 500 yaba pills, he added.

Locals said,over last few months children of different ages of Bayezid area were raped on a CNG-run auto-rickshaw but the criminal behind the incident was not identified. After some incidents were reported, Bayezid police started investigation and found Belal behind the crimes, said police.

Police said Belal had previous record of such crimes.

Deputy Commissioner (DC North) Bijoy Basak said, police found eight cases filed with Bayezid Bostami and two cases with Akbar Shah police stations in this connection.