New IGP warns media pressure can compromise police investigations, recalls 'Joj Mia drama'

Police must be given adequate response time to investigate crimes, or investigations can be compromised, said newly appointed Inspector General of Police (IGP) Md Ali Hossain Fakir.  

Speaking at his first formal press briefing yesterday at the Police Headquarters Media Centre, He cited the infamous 2004 "Joj Mia Drama" as an example of how excessive media pressure can distort investigations.

The IGP said police would remain vigilant to prevent such incidents in the future. He also addressed ongoing high-profile cases, including the repatriation of Faisal Karim Masud and his associate Almogir Hossain from India, accused in the assassination of Inquilab Mancho convenor Osman Hadi.  "The ministry has been in contact with them, and operations are underway. We hope to bring them back soon," he said.

The IGP recalled the  21 August 2004 grenade attack and said, "When the media applies excessive pressure, it creates mental stress on the police. Often, confessions are obtained hastily based on whatever evidence is immediately available. I believe the Joj Mia incident occurred due to media pressure."

He noted that police had arrested a man known as Joj Mia and allegedly coerced a confession through intimidation and inducements, but later investigations proved he had no connection to the attack, and the "drama" was reportedly orchestrated to shield the real perpetrators.

On law enforcement actions against extortionists and identified terrorists, he said lists from various agencies are being verified to identify common names, with operations expected to begin shortly.

Regarding the recent arrests under anti-terror laws for allegedly broadcasting Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's historic 7 March speech, he stressed that police would not act "overzealously." Still, citizens must comply with the law and avoid taking matters into their own hands.

He added that the employment crisis makes it easy to mobilise crowds for "mob pressure," often involving drug abusers or opportunists, and vowed that the main organisers will be brought to justice. Highlighting declining law-abiding habits, he noted that citizens now demand instant justice and added that proposals have been submitted to assign an executive magistrate at every police station to resolve disputes quickly.

On questions about police uniforms, he said the government would review the matter. Addressing political influences behind juvenile gangs, emphasising that while political parties shape national policy, anyone committing a crime will face legal consequences.

Finally, the IGP warned against the misuse of the July Revolution for personal gain. "The July Revolution is not anyone's private property. Those attempting to exploit it will be identified. Many are now posing as "revolutionaries" even though they had no involvement in the movement.

Efforts are underway to prevent anyone from diminishing or destroying the legacy of the July Revolution," the police chief said, adding, "The July Revolution belongs to the people, not a handful of individuals."