Identity of Woman Arrested in Shooting of NCP Labour Leader Revealed

Fresh details have come to light regarding the shooting of a senior labour leader affiliated with Bangladesh’s National Citizen Party (NCP) in Khulna, as police confirm the identity and background of a woman arrested in connection with the case. The incident has sparked widespread discussion due to the involvement of political figures, allegations of criminal activity, and conflicting claims surrounding the circumstances of the attack.

The victim, Motaleb Shikder (42), is a central leader of Jatiya Sramik Shakti, an allied organisation of the NCP, and currently serves as its Khulna Divisional Head. He sustained a gunshot injury to the head during an incident at a flat in the Sonadanga area of Khulna. Although critically alarming, the injury was not fatal, as the bullet reportedly grazed his scalp before exiting.

Following the incident, a case was filed at Sonadanga Police Station on Tuesday (23 December) by Motaleb’s wife, Rahima Akhter Fahima. The primary accused named in the case is Mosa Tanima, also known as Tanbi, who holds the post of Joint Member Secretary of the Khulna District unit of Jatiya Jubo Shakti, the youth wing associated with the NCP. The case also lists seven to eight unidentified individuals as accused.

Police investigations and statements from the flat’s owner have revealed allegations that the residence was frequently used for drug consumption and other criminal activities. Investigators stated that Motaleb Shikder and Tanima had rented the flat while introducing themselves as husband and wife. However, police later confirmed that Tanima is legally married and has identified her husband as Tanvir Sheikh during interrogation.

According to Tajul Islam, Deputy Commissioner (South) of Khulna Metropolitan Police, Motaleb arrived at Tanima’s residence around midnight on Sunday with two associates and stayed overnight. On Monday morning, a group of four to five individuals allegedly entered the flat, assaulted him, and demanded money. During the confrontation, a firearm was discharged to intimidate him, with the bullet grazing his head. Motaleb reportedly managed to walk to hospital on his own while the attackers fled the scene.

Police further disclosed that raids conducted after the incident led to the recovery of equipment used for yaba consumption, along with video footage allegedly indicating immoral activities. Due to the sensitivity of the investigation, authorities have declined to share further details publicly.

The case has also drawn attention to Motaleb Shikder’s political history. Although he joined the NCP in September through the recommendation of a party leader and subsequently secured the role of divisional convener of Jatiya Sramik Shakti, he previously maintained close associations with leaders of the Awami League and Sramik League. Labour leader Zakir Hossain Biplob confirmed that while Motaleb never held a formal post within their organisations, he regularly participated in meetings, rallies, and elections.

Addressing the controversy, Rahat Hossain, organiser of the Khulna Metropolitan unit of the NCP, stated that the shooting was unrelated to party activities. He emphasised that the incident stemmed from personal circumstances and that the organisation would not assume responsibility.

Police have confirmed that efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest the armed suspects and to recover the weapon used in the attack.

Key Facts at a Glance :