Tragedy in Oman: four brothers die after wedding shopping

Four Bangladeshi expatriate brothers from Chattogram were found dead inside a parked car in Oman, just days before they were due to return home for family wedding preparations, leaving their family and village in deep mourning.

The incident took place in Al Muladda, around 100 kilometers from Oman’s capital Muscat, and is believed to have occurred late Tuesday night, May 12. The tragedy came to light on Wednesday morning when locals noticed four men unconscious inside a parked vehicle and informed police.

Omani police arrived at the scene and recovered the bodies of the four brothers -- Md Rashedul Islam, Md Shahedul Islam, Md Sirajul Islam, and Md Shahidul Islam -- all residents of Bandarajarpara area under Lalanagar Union in Rangunia upazila of Chattogram. They were the sons of Abdul Majid.

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Family sources said four of the five brothers were working in Oman. Two of them were preparing to return to Bangladesh soon, while wedding arrangements were already underway in the family. The brothers had reportedly gone out together for shopping related to one of the upcoming weddings.

Preliminary investigation suggests they may have died from toxic gas poisoning caused by air conditioner gas leakage after the vehicle had been running for a long time in a closed area. Police are also examining the possibility of an AC cylinder explosion or other mechanical failure.

However, authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of death and are awaiting autopsy and medical reports. The bodies are currently in police custody and will be transferred to Muscat after legal procedures are completed.

The news has cast a shadow of grief over their home village in Rangunia, where relatives and neighbors gathered in shock. One of the deceased brothers was married and had children, while two others were expected to marry after returning home.

The Bangladesh Embassy in Oman has confirmed the incident and said diplomatic efforts are underway to send the bodies back to Bangladesh.