Police launch nationwide manhunt after Osman Hadi shooting

IGP Baharul says attackers acted to “hinder” electoral activities

Police have announced an “all-out” nationwide operation at night following the attack on Sharif Osman bin Hadi, convenor of the Inqilab Moncho, in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar after Jummah prayers.

Inspector General of Police Md Baharul Alam confirmed the decision during a phone call with bdnews24.com on Friday night, saying the assault was carried out by those seeking to cast a “negative influence” over the election.

Asked about the progress in the attempted murder investigation, he said: “We are not discussing progress at this moment; we are working, and we will not fail.”

Brushing aside the possibility of the attack affecting politics or the general election, he said: “Look, this is a battle to identify the attackers and those behind them. We will uncover them.”

In response to a questions, the IGP said the assailants were “those who want to impede the election or create uncertainty around it”.

He stressed that police were treating the matter with “utmost seriousness”.

Confirming the start of the crackdown, he said: “We will move with an all-out operation against every form of terrorist activity. Throughout the night, we will conduct such operations across the country.”

He noted that candidates or potential candidates identified as vulnerable will be given extra protection.

Explaining how the security will be implemented, Baharul said: “We will follow the same system that has been in place for the past 20 to 50 years. Armed guards will accompany them.

“Intelligence agencies will assess vulnerabilities and alert candidates on which areas to avoid and other precautions.”

He ended by saying: “We are not afraid, nor will we step back.”