Rohingya killed by snake bite

Teknaf, Bangladesh: A Rohingya was killed by poisonous snake bite on October 21, at night while he was in the forest of Teknaf union to cut wood, said a relative of the victim.

“The victim was identified as Mohamed Salim (35), hailed west Mosh Khali Para of Whaikong union of Teknaf uparzilar. He married a local girl and the father of three children. He is originally from Arakan State, Burma and has been living there since 20 years ago.”

On October 21, at night, the victim went to the forest of Bahar Sara, the western side of Teknaf, to cut wood with some companions from his village. Suddenly, a venomous snake bit him while they (woodcutters) were in the forest preparing for cutting wood and other companions ran away for fear of snake bite, said one of the woodcutters. 

“However, after half an hour, the companions again went to the spot to see the victim, while the victim was putting down with unconscious state. But, a few minutes later, he died on the spot. The deceased was brought to his father-in-law house by the other woodcutters.”

The next day, on October 22, in the morning, the incident was informed to the concerned authorities and the relatives were facing many difficulties while processing to get official permission to bury the dead body. 

Nevertheless, on October 23, at about 9:00 am, the dead body was buried at the local cemetery, said another relative.

“Salim was very poor and left nothing for us. How can I support my three children in future,” said the victim’s wife.