Thousands bid tearful farewell to Bangladesh-born NYPD officer Didarul

Thousands gathered to pay their last respects to Didarul Islam, a Bangladesh-born New York Police Department (NYPD) officer who was tragically killed in a shooting while on duty last week.

The emotional funeral took place on Thursday, July 31, at the Parkchester Jamia Mosque in the Bronx, where police officers, government officials, community leaders, expatriate Bangladeshis, and local residents came together in a spontaneous show of support and mourning. Many attendees had traveled from outside New York to honor the fallen officer.

Prominent speakers at the service included New York State Governor Kathy Hochul, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, and Didarul’s wife, Jamila Begum. They highlighted Didarul’s dedication, sacrifice, and professional integrity, as well as his proud Bangladeshi heritage.

Mayor Adams remarked, “A man traveled thousands of miles to serve this city and gave his life in the line of duty. New York will never forget him.” Commissioner Tisch added, “Didarul was fearless, selfless, and responsible. His sacrifice will remain in our hearts forever.”

Following the funeral prayers led by Imam Dr. Zakir Ahmed, Didarul’s coffin, draped with the American flag, was carried out amid a sudden downpour, which mourners interpreted as nature’s tribute to the brave officer.

The Bangladeshi American Police Association (BAPA), representing NYPD officers of Bangladeshi descent, played an active role in organizing the funeral. BAPA President Ershad Siddiqui, along with other members, supported the family throughout the process.

Didarul was laid to rest at Laurel Grove Cemetery in New Jersey, where he was posthumously promoted to First Grade Detective. Fellow officers paid their final salute, and the Islamic declaration of faith, the Kalima, was recited.

Originally from Moulvibazar, Bangladesh, Didarul immigrated to the United States at age 20. He joined the NYPD in 2019 as a School Safety Agent and quickly became one of the department’s most promising officers.

Didarul was shot while on duty on Monday, July 28, during a department-approved security operation on Park Avenue in Manhattan.