Advisor Denies Resignation Rumours, Updates Security Measures

Lieutenant General (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Security Advisor to the Ministry of Home Affairs, has categorically dismissed rumours regarding his resignation. Speaking to journalists on Monday, 22 December, following a meeting of the Law and Order Advisory Council at the Ministry’s conference room in the Secretariat, he remarked, “If I had intended to resign, I would not be here today.”

During the briefing, the Home Affairs Advisor addressed ongoing investigations into the murder of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent figure in the July popular uprising. “We have yet to obtain precise information on the whereabouts of the primary perpetrator,” he stated. “Had we known his location, he would have been apprehended by now.” However, in connection with the case, the authorities have arrested Faisal’s immediate family members—his father, mother, wife, and brother-in-law—as well as the motorcycle driver involved. Additionally, members of the intermediary network implicated in the crime have been detained near border areas.

Regarding the progress of Operation Devil Hunt Phase-2, Lt Gen Chowdhury indicated that the campaign has resulted in the apprehension of numerous terrorists and criminals, with a total of 6,998 arrests recorded so far.

The Advisor also addressed security measures for media personnel. Editors of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star have been provided with armed protection, and residential security has been strengthened. Approximately 20 individuals at risk have received gunmen protection, and he assured that adequate security will also be extended to BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman upon his return to Bangladesh.

He emphasised, “The government is prioritising the prosecution of all individuals involved in the Sharif Osman Hadi murder case to ensure justice is delivered.”

Meanwhile, Faisal Hasan, Deputy Chief Information Officer of the Ministry, reported that the 18th meeting of the Law and Order Advisory Council reviewed preparations for the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election, progress in Operation Devil Hunt Phase-2, student union elections at Jagannath University (JAKSU), and law enforcement readiness for Christmas and New Year celebrations.

The Council also discussed nationwide law and order issues, including the prevention of violent and provocative cyber campaigns, theft, extortion, abuse of women and children, anti-narcotics operations, labour rights enforcement, industrial security, and law and order in border, hill, and Rohingya camp areas. Optimism was expressed that the upcoming JAKSU elections, following the peaceful conduct of previous student elections at DU, JU, RAJUK, and Chittagong University, would similarly be safe, credible, and orderly.

Table: Key Arrests and Security Measures

The Home Affairs Advisor concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order across the nation during the holiday season, elections, and ongoing security operations.