Ex-DGFI official Afzal Naser, another 1/11 figure, arrested in Mirpur

Detectives have arrested former DGFI official Md Afzal Naser, a dismissed lieutenant colonel and known to be associated with the 1/11 government.

The Detective Branch of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police arrested him early today (30 March) at a house in Mirpur DOHS in the capital, confirmed DB Joint Commissioner Nasirul Islam.

However, no official information has yet been provided regarding the case in which he was arrested.
     
Earlier this month, law enforcement arrested Lt Gen (retd) Masud Uddin Chowdhury, a former lawmaker and a figure widely discussed during the 1/11 period.

Lt Col (dismissed) Afzal, a former Bangladesh Army officer from Senbagh in Noakhali, has resurfaced in discussions amid allegations linked to his military and civilian roles.

He joined the army on 4 July 1984 and was dismissed on 5 November 2009. He later worked as an administrative officer at United Group.

He is currently accused in a murder case filed at Bhatara Police Station, according to sources.

Afzal previously served in the DGFI's Anti-Terrorism Unit during the 2007-2008 1/11 period under Brigadier General ATM Amin, where multiple accounts allege his involvement in arrests, interrogations, and physical and psychological abuse.

Senior BNP leaders, including BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, have publicly described being tortured during that period, with Afzal named in several testimonies. Allegations also include harassment of Vice-Chairman Abdul Awal Mintoo and forced video statements.

He is further accused of filming a widely circulated video of former state minister Lutfozzaman Babar and being involved in the alleged torture of businessman Mosaddek Ali Falu.

In April 2024, during Khaleda Zia's illness, United Hospital was reportedly approached for treatment, which Afzal allegedly declined to facilitate, though no official statement has been made.