Only those proven involved will be arrested: IGP on recently filed July uprising murder case
Interpol assistance will be sought for the arrest of absconding police officials, he says
Citing examples of hundreds being implicated in murder cases related to the July-August killings, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam assured that only those whose involvement is confirmed through investigation will be arrested.
Speaking to reporters at a media briefing at Foreign Service Academy today (28 April), the IGP said, "Previously, cases were registered verbally, with the police recording them. Now, plaintiffs submit written statements. While the law mandates that police accept all filed cases, we have noted instances where a crime committed by 5-10 people leads to the implication of around 300 individuals."
The IGP went on to say, "A similar case was filed yesterday. However, we assure the public that only those whose involvement is confirmed through investigation will be arrested."
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Actor Iresh Zaker was named as an accused alongside deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina and 406 others in a murder case filed recently over the death of one Srabon during last year's mass uprising.
Sraban, son of Mosharraf Hossain of Naogaon district, was shot to death during the July-August movement in Mirpur on 5 August last year.
Iresh, group managing director of marketing and advertising company Asiatic 3Sixty, is the 157th accused in the case.
His naming in the arrest sparked an uproar on social media.
Interpol assistance to be sought for arrest of absconding police officials
The IGP said police will seek assistance from Interpol in arresting the absconding police officers accused in the murder cases filed over killings during July-August movement.
"Investigations are ongoing into police officers who opened fire or ordered the shootings during the mass uprising. Officers who remain in the country are being arrested, while efforts are underway to seek Interpol's assistance in apprehending those who have fled abroad," he added.
He said, "There are approximately 1,500 cases and over 600 reported murders. Without completing the investigations, it will be difficult to determine the extent of police responsibility and identify those who issued the orders."
In response to another question regarding police reform, Baharul Alam reiterated the need for an independent police commission.
He emphasised that such a commission should oversee matters involving accused officers, arrests, and cases, while responsibilities such as transfers, promotions, and salary decisions could remain under the Home Ministry.
"Although the Police Reform Commission has agreed to these proposals in principle, no final decision has yet been made," he said.
He acknowledged that mistakes may occur but urged the public not to make unfair demands.
The IGP noted that he frequently faces undue pressure regarding officer transfers, the release of accused individuals, and even the awarding of police medals.
"I respectfully request the citizens to allow me to work according to the rules and regulations, without subjecting me to unfair demands," he said.
