Arrest warrant issued against 8 over Jhalakathi launch fire

An arrest warrant has been issued against eight people, including four owners of MV Abhijan-10, in a case filed over the deaths after the launch caught fire in the Sugandha river in Jhalakathi district.

Judge (Special Metropolitan Magistrate) of Dhaka Marine Court Joynab Begum issued the warrant, lawyer for the state Bellal Hossain told Jago News. 

Those against whom the arrest warrant was issued are the launch owners - Md Hamjalal Sheikh, Md Shamim Ahmed, Md Russel Ahmed, and Ferdous Hasan Rabbi; and the launch in-charge master Md Riaz Shikder, in-charge driver Md Masum Billah, second master Md Khalilur Rahman and second driver Abul Kalam.

Earlier today, Chief Inspector of Shipping department Md Shafiqur Rahman lodged the case under sections 56/66 and 70 of the Special Maritime Law.

A massive fire broke out at Barguna-bound MV Abhijan-10 in the Sugandha river in Deuri area under Ponabalia union early Friday.

A total of 41 people, so far, died, and many remain missing in the incident. And many others are being treated at hospitals with burn injuries. 

JA/SU