The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that Bangladesh’s upcoming national elections are conducted in a free, fair, impartial and festive atmosphere, as security agencies intensify operations nationwide.
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, RAB Director General and Additional Inspector General of Police AKM Shahidur Rahman said the elite force is working with the highest level of dedication to maintain law and order throughout the election period.
He also mentioned RAB is carrying out relentless efforts across the country to prevent violence and instability, expressing optimism that voters would be able to participate in a peaceful and orderly election. The remarks were made at the RAB Media Center in Karwan Bazar, Dhaka.
The RAB chief said intensive operations are continuing to arrest Faisal Karim Masud, the prime accused in the murder of Sharif Osman Hadi, a spokesperson of the political platform Inqilab Mancha. Sharif Osman Hadi was shot dead on 12 December.
He also said RAB launched an investigation immediately after the killing, deploying maximum operational capacity. Between 12 and 16 December, eight people directly and indirectly involved in the murder were arrested, and two firearms used in the crime were recovered. However, Faisal Karim Masud and his associate Alamgir Sheikh remain at large.
Responding to reports suggesting that the suspects may have fled to India, the RAB Director General said their movements are being tracked using both technological surveillance and manual intelligence methods. He added that all legal steps would be taken to bring them back once their locations are confirmed.
The RAB chief also said seven people have been arrested and handed over to police in connection with the killing of Dipu Chandra Das, who was beaten to death by an angry mob on 18 December following allegations of insulting religious sentiments.
Addressing other recent incidents, AKM Shahidur Rahman said one suspect has been arrested through a shadow investigation in connection with a double murder inside the Khulna court premises on 17 December. He added that drives are continuing to identify and arrest others involved in the incident.
In separate operations, RAB arrested a suspected saboteur in Bagharpara, Jessore, recovering 14 crude bombs from his possession. In connection with an explosion at a madrasa in Keraniganj, five cocktails and various explosive-making chemicals were recovered, and two individuals, including the prime accused, Al-Amin, were arrested.
The RAB chief also said operations are ongoing to identify and arrest those responsible for recent attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, emphasising that RAB remains vigilant against any attempt to destabilise the country ahead of the national elections.
