Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has arrested Zahirul Islam alias Apon, a third‑gender member and the prime suspect in the murder of fellow community member Enamul Haque Shishir alias Mahi in Cumilla.
RAB‑11 Acting Company Commander and Senior ASP Mithun Kumar Kundu confirmed the arrest in a press release on Tuesday.
ASP Mithun said Mahi, 29, and Apon, 46, along with others involved, had long lived together in Burichang Bazar area. “From our primary investigation, we learned they were all engaged in the drug trade, and a serious dispute over money was ongoing,” he added.
On 13 May, Apon and associates allegedly trapped Mahi at their residence near Muktijoddha Complex, tied hands and feet, poured petrol and set Mahi on fire.
The suspects fled to different parts of the country to avoid arrest. During initial interrogation, Apon confessed to burning Mahi to death.
Mahi died Sunday while undergoing treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital’s burn unit. The same day, the victim’s father filed a murder case with Burichang Police Station.
RAB said legal action against Apon is underway.
