The cultural community in Narayanganj has been left reeling after the shocking murder of 32-year-old musician Suman Khalifa, who was hacked to death shortly after performing at a local event. His body was recovered early Monday morning from a road near an abandoned house in the Middle Narsinghpur area of Fatullah, a discovery that has raised troubling questions about the safety of performers who frequently travel for late-night engagements.
Suman had travelled on Sunday evening to a musical programme in the Panchabati area of Fatullah, accompanied by his wife and fellow musician Sonia Akter. The couple often performed together and were well known among local event organisers. The performance began as usual, but at one point Suman stepped outside the venue. According to Sonia, he did not appear distressed or under any threat when he left the stage area. Yet he never returned.
Sonia described the moments of uncertainty that followed. “At first, I thought he had gone out to take a call or get some air. But when he stayed away for too long, I began to worry. We tried calling him, but his phone was unreachable. Even then, we did not expect anything like this.”
It was only the next morning that the dreadful truth emerged. Police responded to reports from locals who had found a body lying near a deserted property. Officers confirmed that the victim was Suman and that he had been killed with a sharp weapon. The wounds suggested a violent assault, possibly intended to eliminate the victim swiftly.
Suman, originally from Agoiljhara in Barishal, had built his livelihood around music. Friends and colleagues describe him as gentle, dedicated and well liked, with no known disputes that might lead to such a brutal attack.
Police investigators are treating the killing as a targeted act, though the precise motive remains elusive. Additional Police Superintendent Hasanuzzaman confirmed that the body has been sent for post-mortem examination at Narayanganj General Hospital. He said detectives are exploring all potential angles, including personal conflict, professional disputes or possible involvement of local criminal groups.
The area surrounding Fatullah has, in recent years, been associated with various forms of criminal activity, including extortion and turf conflicts among rival groups. Although there is no confirmed link to Suman’s murder, residents say such incidents contribute to an atmosphere of unease, especially for people working late into the night.
Members of the cultural community have spoken out strongly, expressing fear and demanding better protection. Many performers rely on night-time events, often travelling through poorly lit areas with limited security. Suman’s killing has therefore become a symbol of broader concerns about public safety and the vulnerability of artists and freelancers who regularly move between event venues.
Sonia, still in a state of shock, has appealed for justice and clarity. “We want to know who did this and why. Suman never harmed anyone. He did nothing but sing and bring joy to people. His loss is unbearable.”
Police have pledged a thorough investigation, saying they are analysing phone records, reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing individuals connected to the event. However, as of now, no arrests have been made.
Until investigators piece together what happened on that tragic night, Suman’s family, friends and the music community remain in grief and uncertainty, hoping that answers—and justice—will come soon.