A woman has reportedly died after being beaten during an alleged mob attack in Ukhiya upazila of Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, while she was trying to save her son from assault, according to local sources and family allegations.
The incident took place on Saturday evening (May 17, 2026) around 8:00 PM in the Rajapalong union area of Tyapalong village. The deceased, identified as Shaeida Begum, was reportedly caught in escalating political violence linked to student politics.
Triggered by Social Media Reaction
Local accounts and family members allege that the violence began following a Facebook interaction involving a “haha” reaction to a post made by a local student political activist. The reaction reportedly angered rival political activists, leading to a confrontation.
Shaeida Begum’s son, a student activist named Yunus, was allegedly attacked first. When he was being beaten, another young man, Imran, attempted to intervene and was also assaulted.
Mother’s Attempt to Save Son Ends in Tragedy
According to eyewitness accounts, Shaeida Begum rushed to the scene after learning about the attack on her son. She reportedly tried to shield him with her own body, but was allegedly beaten with fists and sticks during the chaos.
She lost consciousness at the scene and was later taken to Ukhiya Upazila Health Complex, where doctors declared her dead.
Police Response and Investigation
Police confirmed that they are investigating the incident to determine the exact cause of death and identify those involved.
Officer-in-Charge of Ukhiya Police Station Mujibur Rahman said that legal action would be taken against the perpetrators. He added that additional police forces have been deployed in the area to maintain order, and that one person has been taken into police custody.
Allegations of Political Involvement
Family members and local residents have alleged that activists linked to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its student wing, Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD), were involved in the attack.
They also claim that the accused surrounded the hospital following the incident and attempted to intimidate police personnel.
Among those named in allegations are several local political and student leaders, including a JCD leader identified as Hashem Sikder Jisan, along with other local BNP-affiliated individuals.
Rising Political Tensions in the Area
Locals say the region has been tense for over a week due to political slogans and rivalries. They further allege that multiple groups have been competing for local influence, often resulting in intimidation and violent confrontations.
Some residents claim that the incident reflects a broader pattern of political violence and “mob justice” in the area following recent shifts in local power dynamics.
However, BNP representatives have stated that they are not fully aware of the incident and have called for a fair and transparent investigation.
Growing Demand for Justice
The death of Shaeida Begum has triggered outrage in the local community, with residents demanding immediate arrests and an impartial investigation into the incident.
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing, and further details will be released as the case develops.
