Bangladesh police have labeled the killing of Islamist student leader Sharif Osman Hadi as a “politically motivated murder.” Investigators have revealed that the conspiracy behind the attack was orchestrated in Singapore. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s Detective Branch has filed a chargesheet against 17 individuals in connection with the case.
Law enforcement officials have stated that the murder was carried out on the orders of former Mirpur councillor Taizul Islam Chowdhury, also known as Bappi, due to political animosity. The incident is being described as a case of “political vengeance.” Md Shafiqul Islam, Additional Commissioner of the DMP Detective Branch, explained that Hadi’s political activism had led to conflicts with leaders of the now-banned Awami League and its student wing.
According to police reports, Hadi’s outspoken criticism of the Awami League and Chhatra League through public rallies and social media had angered their leaders and activists. Following the killing, several accused individuals fled Bangladesh, allegedly crossing into India via the Meghalaya border. The chargesheet includes 17 accused, with prime suspect Faisal Karim Masud named among them.
Investigators have disclosed that a crucial meeting to plan the assassination occurred in Singapore, attended by former MP Elias Mollah, former councillor Taizul Islam, shooter Faisal Karim Masud, and others. Masud, a former Chhatra League leader, and another suspect, Alamgir Sheikh, associated with the Youth League, are currently on the run. A third individual, identified as Philip, was also involved in the shooting.
Sharif Osman Hadi, aged 32, was a prominent figure known for his role as a spokesperson for Inqilab Moncho and his involvement in the mass protests of July–August 2024 that led to the downfall of the Hasina-led government. He succumbed to injuries sustained from a gunshot to the head on December 18, after being airlifted to Singapore for medical treatment following the attack on December 12.
