Arrest Warrants Issued in DU Tofazzal Murder

The Dhaka courts have taken a decisive step in the high-profile murder case of Tofazzal Hossain, a mentally unstable man allegedly killed after being accused of theft at Fazlul Haq Muslim Hall, University of Dhaka (DU). On Tuesday, the court accepted the charge sheet submitted by the Police Bureau of Investigation (PBI), which names 28 individuals, issuing arrest warrants against 22 fugitives who remain at large.

Court Proceedings and Order

The order was issued by Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Juel Rana, who formally accepted the PBI charge sheet during the hearing. Authorities noted that while the complainant, Mohammad Amanullah, initially indicated he would file a refusal of prosecution, he ultimately did not submit it, allowing the charge sheet to be accepted.

Accused Individuals and Current Status

The accused include students from multiple departments and halls at the University of Dhaka. The table below summarises the status of the suspects:

Currently, Ahsan Ullah (Bipul Sheikh) and Wajibul Alam are out on bail, while four others remain in custody. The remaining 22 accused are absconding.

Incident Background

On 18 September 2024, Tofazzal Hossain, aged 32, was reportedly beaten to death in the guest room of Fazlul Haq Muslim Hall after being accused of theft. Social media footage showed the victim being fed rice before being assaulted. Following the attack, he was taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, where doctors declared him dead at around midnight.

The case was filed the next day at Shahbagh Police Station by the university estate office supervisor, Mohammad Amanullah. Initial investigations led to a charge sheet against 21 DU students, which was later contested by the university administration citing incomplete investigation.

Reinvestigation and Expanded Charge Sheet

On 26 February 2025, the Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate ordered a reinvestigation by the Police Bureau of Investigation (PBI). Following their inquiry, PBI submitted a revised charge sheet on 15 December 2025, expanding the list of accused to 28 individuals.

Legal Implications

The court’s acceptance of the PBI charge sheet marks a significant development in the Tofazzal murder case, emphasising the seriousness of the crime and the commitment of law enforcement to pursue justice. Arrest warrants for the 22 fugitives will now facilitate further police operations, while ongoing proceedings against those in custody and on bail continue.