Police had prior information of Gulshan attacks

MNA Editorial Desk: Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal has claimed that the law enforcement agency (Police) and his ministry had prior information of the Gulshan and Sholakia attacks.

Kamal at the time of talking at a conversation in Dhaka on Sunday said, “The government had information that something might happen in Gulshan and had made all kinds of preparations for it. We know who is behind this and who supported them.” the minister shared this at Krishibid auditorium.

Kamal later claimed that as soon as the Dhaka Metropolitan Police commissioner got the info of gunfire at Holey Artisan Bakery on July 1, the police reached the spot within three minutes due to their preparation.

He also emphasized that the public are aware of the 13-minute operation, where the army took control of the situation. He praised the role law enforcer agencies played in the Gulshan attack and also mentioned July 7, where police thwarted the attack attempt of terrorists in Sholakia, losing the lives of two members of the force.

He acclaimed nationals for their approach towards accusing the movements of terrorists and assisting law enforcers to arrest militants in Madaripur and Sholakia.

“Even family members of the dead terrorists were so ashamed that they did not receive their bodies,” he added.

He suggested an anti-terrorism committee to be formed in every educational institution, whose task would be to recognize susceptible groups and offer proper counseling.

Meanwhile, Asaduzzaman Khan, on Saturday also claimed that the instigators and the criminals of Gulshan cafe terror attack have been recognized. He said the attackers are Bangladeshi nationals but the instigators might be from abroad.

“Law enforcers are on a manhunt for their arrest, and the mystery behind the incident will be debunked soon.” said the minister to reporters at the secretariat.

“Law enforcement agencies are conducting investigations against the identified criminals, and they’ll take legal steps as soon as possible. We’re not revealing the details in the interest of investigation.” said the minister.

“Detectives had information about attacks across the country before the Gulshan attack. That’s why we ordered our law enforcers to remain alert. After having information about the cafe attack, Banani police officer-in-charge Salahuddin rushed to the spot and died at the United Hospital in Gulshan after having hit during the attack.” he said.

However, at least 28 people, including 17 foreigners, three Bangladeshis, six attackers and two senior police officials were killed as terrorists attacked Holey Artisan Bakery restaurant at the city’s Gulshan diplomatic zone on July 1.