The assassination of 32-year-old anti-India leader Sharif Osman Hadi has sparked political chaos across Bangladesh. Hadi was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Dhaka, triggering widespread protests, violent clashes, and unrest throughout the country.
Hadi’s Funeral Amid Tight Security
Hadi’s funeral took place on Saturday under strict security measures. Attendees included Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus of the interim government, members of his advisory council, and Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman. Despite the security presence, tensions remained high, reflecting the public anger and fear over the political assassination.
Who is Faisal Karim Masud?
At the center of the investigation is Faisal Karim Masud, who is accused of orchestrating or carrying out Hadi’s killing and remains on the run. Masud was reportedly a leader of the Chhatra League, the now-banned student wing of the ousted Awami League, the party of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
According to reports, Masud actively participated in Hadi’s election campaign, accompanied by another suspect, identified as Alamgir, who allegedly acted as the motorcycle rider during the attack. Police records also show that Masud had been arrested about a year ago in connection with an armed robbery at a Dhaka school, where a foreign-made pistol was recovered.
Before the assassination, Masud reportedly told his girlfriend, “Something will happen tomorrow that will shake the entire country.” His wife, Saheda Parvin Samia, has been arrested along with other family members.
Where is Faisal Karim Masud?
Bangladeshi authorities believe Faisal was helped by two associates, Sibyon Diu and Sanjay Chisim, to cross the border into India. Both associates have been arrested and are currently in custody. Sibyon Diu, notably, is the nephew of a former Awami League member of parliament and had been involved in an organized syndicate that facilitated illegal cross-border movements of people and goods from Haluaghat, Dhobaura, and Sherpur into India.
However, there are no confirmed reports of Faisal’s exact location. Hadi’s allies have reportedly given the interim government a 24-hour deadline to apprehend the fugitive, adding further pressure on authorities to resolve the crisis quickly.
The assassination of Hadi and the ongoing manhunt for Faisal Karim Masud have left Bangladesh on edge, highlighting deep political divisions and raising concerns over law and order in the country.
