Charges pressed against 13 for killing Sramik Dal leader Shafi

Investigation officer Kamrul Islam, also officer in-charge (OC) of Chandgaon Police Station, submitted the charge sheet to the Court of Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (CMM), accusing the AL leader as prime suspect.Ê

The accused are Pahartali Ward Commissioner and AL leader Mohammad Hossain Hiron, Mazharul Islam, Helaluddin, Ratan Mallik, Ripon Howlader, Noab Ali, Maruf, Haider Hossain Badal, Mahmudul Haq alias Madu, Naimul Islam Naim alias Imon, Md Shipon Howlader, Solaiman and Akhtaruddin Babu.

Of them, five are now in jail, while the rest are absconding.

Shafi, also a freedom fighter, was chopped and shot dead by a gang of 15 at his residence at Arambagh in the port city on the night of June 14.

Shafi's wife Masuda Begum filed a case with Khulshi Police Station, accusing 13 people, including the local ward commissioner and AL leader, the following day.

The case was transferred to the Detective Branch (DB) of police on June 17 for investigation. A total of 47 witnesses were quizzed during the investigation.

The case is likely to be transferred to the Speedy Trial Tribunal soon, sources said.