31 suspects identified, 9 arrested in attacks on Media and cultural hubs

Law enforcement agencies have arrested at least nine individuals in connection with attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo, The Daily Star, Chhayanaut, and Udichi across Dhaka and other parts of the country.

So far, video footage analysis has led to the preliminary identification of 31 suspects.

The information was released at 10:31am on Monday (December 22) via a verified Facebook post of Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus.

Among those arrested, seven have been identified: Md Kashem Faruk, Md Saidur Rahman, Rakib Hossain, Md Naim, Faisal Ahmed Pranto, Md Sohel Rana, and Md Shafiqul Islam.

Police’s Counter-Terrorism Unit and intelligence agencies have also detained two additional individuals, whose identities are being verified.

Authorities confirmed that video evidence has also identified three suspects involved in attempts to create unrest near the residence of the Indian Assistant High Commissioner in Chattogram.

Law enforcement agencies continue operations to apprehend the remaining suspects.

Prothom Alo and Chhayanaut cases
Authorities of Prothom Alo have filed a case against 400–500 unidentified individuals in connection with the attack, vandalism, looting, and arson at the newspaper’s office.

The case was lodged around 12:10am on Sunday under the Anti-Terrorism Act.

On the other hand, a case has been filed in connection with the attack, arson, and looting at the Chhayanaut Shangskriti-Bhavan. Authorities have named 300–350 individuals as accused in the case.