Underworld turf war turns deadly

The killing of a suspected criminal in Dhaka has intensified concerns over renewed turf wars in the capital’s underworld, with investigators linking the incident to long-standing rivalries, shifting criminal networks and financial interests.

Police and crime analysts say the latest wave of targeted attacks reflects a broader struggle for control following recent political changes, which has reportedly allowed several previously detained criminals to secure bail and return to activity.

According to law enforcement sources, the situation has contributed to growing insecurity among a number of known figures, some of whom have gone into hiding or reduced public activity amid fears of further attacks.

The latest incident occurred opposite the Rampura Television Centre in Dhaka, where Yasin Khan, also known as Kailla Palash, was shot shortly after leaving a mosque following Friday prayers. Police said the attack took place near a departmental store in West Rampura.

Palash, who was released on bail five days earlier, sustained a gunshot wound to the head. Doctors at Dhaka Medical College Hospital’s Neurosurgery Department said a bullet was removed from his skull. The projectile reportedly entered through his forehead, causing severe brain damage. He remains in critical condition.

Palash had previously been the principal accused in a 2002 murder case involving a Jubo Dal leader in Rampura. He was sentenced to death by a trial court, but the verdict was later commuted to life imprisonment on appeal. He spent over two decades in custody before his recent release.

Law enforcement officials said the attack appeared to have been carefully planned. Intelligence sources suggested that rival criminal networks operating from abroad and within the country may have coordinated the operation.

According to investigators, a fugitive crime figure believed to be based in Dubai has been identified as a key planner behind the attack, alongside local associates involved in surveillance, logistics and execution.

Police sources said the attackers conducted reconnaissance in the Rampura area before the shooting. Two assailants on motorcycles reportedly opened fire at close range before fleeing the scene. Backup operatives were allegedly positioned nearby.

Following the attack, investigators claim that several suspects escaped towards border areas after changing their clothing at a residential location in the TNT Colony area.

Law enforcement agencies are also examining allegations of internal betrayal within Palash’s former network. Officials said that during his long imprisonment, parts of his previous criminal structure were managed by associates who later developed independent control over local territory and illegal businesses.

Investigators believe that internal disputes over control of extortion, business interests and territorial influence may have contributed to the breakdown of his network. Some former associates are now suspected of aligning with rival groups for protection and advantage.

Police further stated that shifting alliances among local criminal factions in areas including Rampura, Badda, Gulshan and Banani have created a volatile environment, with multiple groups competing for influence over illicit activities.

Following the incident, Palash’s wife filed an attempted murder case with Hatirjheel Police Station. The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB-3) has launched an investigation and arrested one suspect, identified as Maruf Sultan alias Ferdous, from a hideout in the North Nayatola area. Police also arrested another individual allegedly involved in assisting the attackers’ escape.

Hatirjheel police said CCTV footage is being reviewed to identify those directly involved in the shooting. Dhaka Metropolitan Police officials, however, said investigations are ongoing and all angles, including possible involvement of organised crime networks operating from abroad, are being examined.

Authorities added that further details cannot be disclosed at this stage due to the sensitivity of the investigation.