2 bullet-hit in row over MFS transaction in Gulshan

Two people were shot in the capital's Gulshan area yesterday afternoon following a dispute over an MFS (Mobile Financial Services) transaction, say police.

Injured Abdur Rahim, a rickshaw-van driver, and Aminul Islam, a professional driver, were hit in their legs.

They were taken to the United Hospital, where Rahim was treated and sent home. Aminul, however, has been admitted to the hospital.

Meanwhile, police have detained three people, Wahidul Islam Mintu, suspected of opening fire, and his associates Arif Hossain and Monir Ahammed, said SM Jahangir Hasan, additional deputy police commissioner (Gulshan division).

Police also recovered a pistol, 16 bullets, three empty bullet shells, and four magazines, the official added.

Mintu is a contractor by profession and a member of the Awami Swechchhasebak League, police sources say.

Contacted, Abdul Ahad, deputy police commissioner (Gulshan division), said Arif Hossain went to Alfa General Store, near the Gulshan Shopping Plaza, around 4:00pm, and asked the shopkeeper to transfer Tk 75,000 to an MFS account.

After sending the money, the shopkeeper Habibur Rahman asked for the cash but Arif said he did not have it.

Later, Habibur called nearby shopowners and detained Arif, and in response, Arif called his associates.

Getting the call, Arif's associates Kabir, Mintu, and Monir arrived at the spot and tried to free him during which a brawl broke out.

As Arif and his associates tried to flee the scene, the shopkeepers tried to chase them down.

At that time, Mintu haphazardly fired multiple shots, two of which hit Rahim and Aminul.

Wahidul Islam Mintu has a licence for a firearm, but police say they have yet to determine whether the gun he used in the incident was his.

A case is being filed regarding the incident.