No room for mob justice, says Ramna DC

Ramna Division Deputy Commissioner (DC) Masud Alam has said that law enforcement will not allow any group or individual to take the law into their own hands in the name of identifying alleged affiliates of political parties.

The statement came in response to recent events in Dhanmondi, where a group reportedly surrounded the residence of Haqqani Publishers Chairman Golam Mostafa, branding him a supporter of the Awami League. The protest led to the temporary detention of three individuals, including a coordinator from the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement in Mohammadpur.

Following their release, public debate ensued, prompting clarification from the police. At a press briefing held at the DMP Media Center on Minto Road on Wednesday, DC Masud Alam said the three were released due to the absence of any formal complaint or case. However, each was made to sign a written undertaking and issued a warning.

“There will be no scope for creating mobs under any pretext,” said DC Alam. “If anyone has information regarding any individual’s political affiliations or actions, they are encouraged to share it with the police. We will investigate and take appropriate action through legal channels.”

Responding to allegations that the group had attempted to extort money from the homeowner under the guise of being movement coordinators, DC Alam said, “We have not received any complaints of extortion. Should the affected party come forward, we will act accordingly.”

He further noted that since August 5, police have received clear instructions from higher authorities to prevent any form of mob activity. “From now on, there will be zero tolerance. No more surrounding residences, and no unauthorized efforts to identify or confront individuals,” he added.

Addressing questions about Hannan Masud’s reported involvement in securing the release of the detainees, DC Alam clarified, “It was not an intervention. The individuals were detained before any serious incident occurred. Since no charges were filed, they were released upon signing a bond. The written statement makes clear that any future attempt to repeat such actions will result in strict legal consequences.”