Panchagarh priest murderers sentenced to death

A key leader of the militant group Neo JMB Jahangir Alam, alias Rajib alias Andhi, also a plotter of the Holey Artisan Café attack, was today given the death penalty by a Rajshahi court for the 2016 murder of Hindu priest Joggeswar Dasadhikari Roy of Panchagarh.

Rajshahi's Speedy Trial Tribunal Judge Anup Kumar also sentenced three of Alam's accomplices to death over the murder.

Of the three, one Rajibul Islam Molla alias Badhan alias Badal has been absconding since the murder.

The two others -- Alamgir Hossain, and Ramzan Ali -- along with Alam were present in the court dock during the verdict.

Jogeswar Dasadhikari, 50, a priest of Sri Sri Shonto Gaurio Temple in Debiganj upazila's Sonapota area was murdered early morning on February 21, 2016.

Criminals slit throat his throat during an attack on the temple.

Two devotees were also injured in the incident as the criminals fired shots and exploded improvised explosive devices while fleeing.

In the verdict, three more accused -- Harej Ali, Khalilur Rahman and Md Rana -- were acquitted.