The family of a murdered Italian expatriate held a press conference at the Faridpur Press Club on Tuesday, expressing shock after learning that a district committee has recommended withdrawing the murder case by labeling it "politically motivated."
Masud Rana (45), who had lived in Italy for 18 years, was hacked to death on April 13, 2021 at the Naopara bus stand in Bhanga while on vacation. The victim’s family alleges that the move to withdraw the case is a result of lobbying by powerful individuals to protect the accused.
According to the victim’s mother, Halima Begum (75), Masud was killed for attempting to mediate a local village dispute. The investigation by the District Detective Branch resulted in a charge sheet against 34 people, including local Awami League leader Imdadul Haque Bachchu. The charge sheet includes an autopsy report and the recovery of the murder weapon. The trial is currently active in the 2nd Court of the Faridpur Additional Sessions Judge with nine witnesses already having testified.
Despite the criminal nature of the incident, District BNP Convener Syed Modares Ali Icha applied to have the case withdrawn this year, claiming it was filed for political harassment. On April 8, a local "Verification and Selection Committee" including the Deputy Commissioner, Police Superintendent, and Public Prosecutor unanimously recommended the withdrawal.
"My son was not involved in politics; he wasn't even a voter here," a tearful Halima Begum told reporters. "He was murdered in broad daylight. How can a murder case be called a political one?"
The victim's brother, Asaduzzaman, alleged that the accused originally Awami League activists are now using new political connections to escape justice.
District BNP Convener Syed Modares Ali Icha defended his application, stating it was based on intelligence reports. Meanwhile, Additional District Magistrate Mintu Biswas stated that the recommendation was made based on a local investigation. He suggested the family file a formal objection with the Home Ministry to trigger a re-investigation.
The recommendation letter has already been dispatched to the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Cabinet Division for final approval
