Police have started investigation into the ‘mysterious’ deaths of Saudi expatriate Monir Hossain, his wife and child under circumstances in Sweet Sleep Hotel at Moghbazar in the capital.
According to police, preliminary findings from forensic doctors suggest the deaths were likely due to poisoning.
However, police have collected visceral and blood samples for further testing to confirm the exact causes behind the deaths.
Monir had returned to Bangladesh from Saudi Arabia before Eid-ul-Adha. His son, Naim Hossain, was physically disabled, and Monir brought him and his wife to Dhaka on Saturday for medical treatment.
On Sunday, Monir Hossain (48), his wife Nasrin Akhter Swapna (38), and their son Naim Hossain (18) were found dead.
In connection with the deaths, police detained a man named Rafique. He is Monir’s paternal uncle and caretaker of Monir’s properties in Bangladesh. Rafique also managed Monir’s transportation business.
Police are investigating whether Monir had any disputes with anyone related to his business or financial dealings.
CCTV footage from the hotel shows that at 3:57pm on Saturday, Monir and his uncle Rafique arrived at the hotel to book a room. The next morning, Rafique took Monir’s wife from the hotel room to the hospital.
Around 11:30am, Rafique returned to the hotel with his daughter and son-in-law. Monir, who had also fallen ill, was then taken to the hospital.
About an hour later, Monir’s son was also taken to the hospital. The fact that Rafique took each of them to the hospital separately, and that he did not inform the hotel authorities about the incidents, has further deepened the mystery.
Ramna Model Police Station reported that, although Monir lived in Saudi Arabia, he owned several properties in Dhaka and operated a transportation business in Lakshmipur, which Rafique managed. Police officials confirmed they are examining all possible causes of the three deaths.
The autopsies of the three bodies were completed on Monday afternoon at Dhaka Medical College morgue.
Forensic doctors gave a preliminary opinion that the deaths were caused by poisoning, which is also supported by the police’s initial report.
Meanwhile, Monir’s two brothers, who are abroad, are expected to return to Bangladesh soon. Family members have informed the police that a case will be filed once they arrive.