Bangladesh: Mosque Imam Named as Key Conspirator in Mob Lynching of Hindu Man Amid Religious Chants

Image: Jihad Watch

The Detective Branch (DB) of the Bangladesh Police has arrested the key accused believed to have orchestrated the brutal lynching of Hindu garment worker Dipu Chandra Das, a crime that shocked the region and drew widespread condemnation. The accused, identified as 25-year-old Mohammad Yasin Arafat, is alleged to have played a central role in instigating and leading the mob violence that culminated in Das’s killing on December 18, 2025.

According to police officials, Arafat was instrumental in provoking the crowd and directing the sequence of events that led to the murder. Investigators say he actively incited the mob, helped drag Das’s body to Square Masterbari, and participated in setting it on fire after the assault. His actions, police stated, significantly escalated the violence and directly contributed to the tragic outcome.

Arafat, a resident of Karaitola Mor in South Hobirbari, served as an imam at the Shekahbari mosque and had previously worked as a madrasa teacher. Law enforcement authorities revealed that he led the mob by raising inflammatory slogans at the gate of the garment factory where Das was employed. He is accused of not only encouraging the attackers but also taking part in the physical assault that ultimately resulted in Das’s death.

The arrest was carried out with the support of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) as part of an ongoing investigation aimed at identifying and prosecuting all those involved in the lynching.

Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu worker at a local garment factory, was allegedly forced to resign from his job before being handed over to an enraged crowd. He had been accused of hurting religious sentiments after claims surfaced that he had posted a derogatory remark about Prophet Muhammad on Facebook. However, police and investigators have confirmed that no conclusive evidence was found to substantiate the allegation. Despite the absence of proof, the mob subjected Das to a savage beating, killing him on the spot. The attackers later tied his body to a tree and set it on fire, adding to the brutality of the crime.

A disturbing video of the incident, which circulated widely on social media, showed a large mob assaulting Das while chanting Islamic slogans. The graphic footage sparked outrage and renewed fears about the safety and security of religious minorities in Bangladesh.

The killing triggered strong reactions beyond Bangladesh’s borders, leading to mass protests in several parts of India, including demonstrations outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. Protesters demanded justice for Dipu Chandra Das and called for stronger protections for minorities facing religious violence.

(This Article was originally published by Jihad Watch)