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it greatly aggravates the gravity of the crime, which is an extreme disregard for human values and dignity. Such acts create fear and alarm within society. Any form of clemency toward this crime would be contrary to the principles of justice.”

Following the verdict, Abir was sent to jail under tight security.

Court sources said arguments in the case concluded last month, after which it fixed yesterday for pronouncement of the judgment.

According to the prosecution, five-year-old Alina Islam Ayat, daughter of Sohel Rana, was abducted and murdered in the Nayarhat area under the EPZ in the port city on November 14, 2022.

Police Bureau of Investigation (PBI) identified the involvement of Abir, a neighbour of the victim, who was closely known to her family, and detained him.

During interrogation, Abir confessed that he had abducted the child for ransom before killing her.

PBI also arrested one of his friends, as well as Abir’s parents and sister, in connection with the murder.Based on Abir’s confession, investigators recovered the victim’s severed head from a canal. Several drives were also conducted along the coast in the Patenga area.

The incident sparked nationwide outrage, with people demanding exemplary punishment for those responsible.

Following investigation, PBI submitted a charge sheet on October 9, 2023, accusing Abir and his friend.

Investigation Officer Monaj Kumar Dey, an inspector of PBI Metro, recommended dropping the names of Abir’s parents and sister from the case after finding no evidence of their involvement.

As the other accused is a juvenile, his trial is being conducted separately in a juvenile court.