Hunt intensifies for Hadi’s shooter

Investigators have made significant progress in probing the brazen daylight shooting of Sharif Osman Hadi, parliamentary candidate for Dhaka-8 and spokesperson of Inqilab Mancha, but the prime suspect remains at large despite extensive raids and inter-agency coordination.

The attack occurred on Friday, December 12, at approximately 2:20 pm in the Bijaynagar Calvert area of the capital, when two assailants on a motorcycle opened fire on Hadi, critically injuring him. 

He was rushed to Dhaka Medical College Hospital and later transferred to Evercare Hospital for advanced care.

According to a senior officer of the Motijheel Division of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), at least five locations linked to the prime suspect – Faisal Karim Masud, alias Rahul – have been identified and searched, including his residence. However, Faisal was not found at any of these sites.

“There is no indication that he has fled the country,” the officer said on Saturday. “Faisal could not escape. We’ve carried out multiple raids and inquiries – but so far, no breakthrough on his exact whereabouts.”

Investigators revealed that Faisal has been using multiple mobile phones and frequently changing numbers in an apparent attempt to evade detection. 

Despite tracking these communication patterns, law enforcement has not yet pinpointed his location. “No new leads emerged today,” the officer confirmed.

Authorities emphasised close coordination among various agencies. “Everyone is working in coordination. We are in constant contact with RAB, Detective Branch, and other law enforcement units,” the officer added.

Meanwhile, DMP Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali said preparations were on to file a formal case in connection with the attack. “The case will name both the motorcyclist and the pillion rider who fired the shots as accused,” he told reporters on Saturday.

Deputy Police Commissioner of Motijheel Division, Harun Or Rashid, clarified that Hadi’s family will file the case once they are able to do so. “They are currently at the hospital, which has caused some delay,” he explained.

In a major move to accelerate the manhunt, the Interim Government has announced a Tk 50 lakh bounty for information leading to the arrest of Hadi’s attackers. 

Home Affairs Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury confirmed the bounty on Friday, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring justice.

As the investigation continues, security has been heightened around political figures in the capital, and public concern grows over the use of targeted violence during the sensitive pre-election period.