Thailand asks Interpol to seek Dhaka's help

Bangkok English daily The Nation reports yesterday that Thai police have asked help from Bangladesh through Interpol to locate the mastermind behind the fatal bomb blast after investigations indicated that "he might have fled to this South Asian country".

Thai designated police chief Pol Gen Chakthip Chaijinda said that the information about the possible whereabouts of Abu Dustar Abdulrahman or Izan, a Chinese national, had been confirmed through evidence and testimony from witnesses.

"We have already asked Interpol to inform Bangladesh about the latest development concerning the mastermind behind the bomb blast at the Erawan Shrine," said Chakthip who will become police chief next month.

A Reuters report yesterday said Inspector General of Police AKM Shahidul Hoque told the agency he was unaware of the new development.

Assistant Inspector General (Media) Nazrul Islam told The Daily Star that he could not immediately confirm whether any help was sought through Interpol. "Whenever any cooperation is sought from Interpol we take it seriously and take legal action."

Being informed about The Nation report, Director Intelligence wing of Rab Lt Col Abul Kalam Azad told The Daily Star, "We will take the matter seriously and will obviously look into it."