Bangladesh: Former Speaker Shirin Sharmin Shown Arrested; Tuku, Palak and BCL Leader Saikat Also Detained
DHAKA — Law enforcement agencies in Bangladesh have intensified their crackdown on political figures, with former Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury now formally shown arrested in a Lalbagh Police Station case, while several other high-profile figures have also been detained in separate operations.
Shirin Sharmin Presented in Lalbagh Case
According to the Dhaka Metropolitan Detective Branch (DB), Shirin Sharmin was detained early Tuesday from a residence in Dhanmondi where she had reportedly been staying discreetly. Officials say she faces multiple cases linked to violence during the period of mass unrest, including serious allegations under investigation. Authorities are preparing to present her before the court in connection with the Lalbagh case.
Arrest of Deputy Speaker and Former State Minister
In a separate operation, police arrested Deputy Speaker Shamsul Haque Tuku, former State Minister for ICT Zunaid Ahmed Palak, and Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) leader Tanvir Hasan Saikat.
The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) confirmed that the three individuals were detained from the Nikunja residential area under Khilkhet Police Station jurisdiction based on intelligence inputs. Police said they had been in hiding and were arrested in connection with a case filed at Paltan Police Station.
Earlier Arrests of Senior Figures
The latest arrests follow earlier detentions of former Law Minister Anisul Huq and business leader Salman F Rahman, who were apprehended while allegedly attempting to leave Dhaka by river route near Sadarghat.
They were shown arrested in a murder case linked to the death of a street vendor during clashes near Dhaka College amid a student protest program on July 16.
Court Grants Remand
On Wednesday, investigators produced Anisul Huq and Salman F Rahman before the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate’s Court in Dhaka, seeking remand for questioning. The court granted a 10-day remand for both individuals.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities say investigations are ongoing, focusing on the alleged involvement of political leaders and affiliated organization members in incidents of violence during the unrest. More legal actions are expected as law enforcement continues its operations.
