Crime against Humanity: Murder probe tightens grip on Manzil Haidar

A dismissed army officer, Major Md. Manzil Haidar Chowdhury, has been placed on a four-day remand in the custody of the Detective Branch (DB) of police in connection with the murder of a businessman during last year’s anti-discrimination student movement.

The officer, who is reported to have previously served for an extended period at the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI), was arrested last Thursday in a case filed over the killing of businessman Abdul Wadud.

According to case details, Wadud was shot dead on 19 July 2024 in the Nilkhet area under Newmarket Police Station amid unrest linked to the student protests.

A murder case was subsequently filed on 21 August by the victim’s brother-in-law, naming several high-profile individuals, including former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and senior Awami League leader Obaidul Quader, along with others.

Police said the former officer is being questioned over his alleged role in the incident, as well as other matters currently under investigation.

Officials familiar with the inquiry indicated that he had previously held responsibilities at DGFI headquarters, including as a quartermaster.

Investigators are examining allegations that he maintained close links with retired Major General Tarik Ahmed Siddique, a former defence adviser to the Awami League government.

Law enforcement sources said the ongoing investigation is also looking into claims of abuse of authority, financial irregularities and other alleged misconduct during his service tenure.

These allegations are yet to be proven in court.

Police, in their remand application, stated that the suspect may have played a role in activities surrounding the suppression of protests during the July–August movement.

They further alleged that he may have used his position to facilitate logistical support, though these claims remain under investigation.

The accused is currently being held at the DB office on Minto Road in the capital, where he is undergoing interrogation.

Detective Inspector Md. Amzad Hossain Talukdar of the Ramna Division said the suspect is being questioned and has provided “important information” relevant to the case.

Additional Commissioner (Detective) of Dhaka Metropolitan Police, Md. Shafiqul Islam, said details could not be disclosed at this stage as the matter remains under active investigation, but added that further findings may emerge as the inquiry progresses.