Fifteen army officers accused in two enforced disappearance cases and one murder case linked to the July uprising were brought before the International Crimes Tribunal-1 in Dhaka on Sunday morning. The tribunal, chaired by Justice Golam Mortuza Majumder with two other members, is hearing three separate cases involving alleged crimes against humanity committed under the previous Awami League government. Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam earlier presented charges against 17 individuals, including former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her security adviser Major General (Retd.) Tariq Ahmed Siddiq, in the Taskforce for Interrogation (TFI) cell disappearance case. Seven accused remain fugitives, while ten are in custody. In a separate case concerning disappearances at the JIC cell, Hasina and 12 military officers face five formal charges. Another case involves the killing of 28 people in Rampura during the July uprising, with two Border Guard officers detained. The tribunal has set today for defense arguments in all three cases. Legal analysts note that these proceedings mark a significant phase in Bangladesh’s ongoing accountability process for alleged human rights violations.

A parked passenger bus caught fire late Saturday night at Genda Bus Stand on the Dhaka–Aricha Highway in Savar. The incident occurred around 11 p.m. on the Aricha-bound lane, according to local fire officials. No casualties were reported, and firefighters from the Savar Fire Service quickly brought the blaze under control. Warehouse Inspector Meherul Islam of the Savar Fire Service said the cause of the fire remains unknown, though initial assessments suggest possible arson. The extent of property damage has not yet been determined. Savar Model Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge Arman Ali confirmed that police visited the scene but have not located the bus driver or owner. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine who was responsible for the fire and how it started. Officials have urged witnesses to come forward as they examine security footage and other evidence to establish whether the incident was deliberate.

Bangladeshi law enforcement has arrested Abdul Hannan, the owner of the motorcycle allegedly used in the shooting attack on Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the Inquilab Mancha and a key figure in the July Revolution movement. The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) detained Hannan in Dhaka’s Mohammadpur area on Sunday morning and later handed him over to Paltan police. The motorcycle, bearing registration number 54-6375, was identified through CCTV footage. Police and intelligence agencies have intensified investigations, suspecting that anti-state groups may have supported the attack as part of a broader conspiracy to destabilize the upcoming February parliamentary elections. Authorities are also probing possible links to expelled political figures, including former Jubo League leader Ismail Hossain Samrat, reportedly in India. Security agencies have alerted airports and border points to prevent suspects from fleeing the country. The attack has heightened security concerns among political leaders and activists. Dhaka Metropolitan Police has announced expanded surveillance and a review of parole-listed criminals to prevent further incidents.

Bangladesh today marks Martyred Intellectuals Day, commemorating the tragic killings of the nation’s brightest minds on December 14, 1971. On this day, as Pakistan’s defeat became inevitable, occupation forces and their local collaborators abducted and executed teachers, doctors, journalists, artists, and other intellectuals. Their bodies were later found in mass graves at Rayerbazar and Mirpur. The day’s official observances began early morning with floral tributes at the Mirpur Martyred Intellectuals Memorial by President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, followed by ceremonies at Rayerbazar. Political parties including BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami also organized separate programs, discussions, and flag-hoisting ceremonies. In their messages, the President urged building a non-communal, equitable Bangladesh to honor the martyrs’ ideals, while Dr. Yunus emphasized their intellectual leadership during the Liberation War. BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman called for strengthening democracy and freedom of expression to fulfill their vision. The day remains a solemn reminder of the nation’s sacrifice and enduring commitment to justice and national unity.

Bangladeshi law enforcement agencies have launched a full-scale investigation into the attempted murder of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the Inquilab Moncho and a key figure in the July Movement. Authorities suspect that expelled Dhaka South Jubo League leader Ismail Hossain Samrat, now reportedly in India, may have been involved in orchestrating the attack. Police spent Saturday collecting evidence and analyzing CCTV footage, identifying Faisal Karim Masud, a banned Chhatra League cadre, as a prime suspect. Investigators believe the shooting may have been part of a broader conspiracy to disrupt the upcoming February parliamentary elections. Security agencies have alerted airports and border checkpoints to prevent suspects from fleeing the country. The Dhaka Metropolitan Detective Branch (DB) and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) are jointly pursuing leads, interviewing multiple individuals, and compiling lists of known criminals currently out on bail. The attack has heightened security concerns among political groups and candidates linked to the July Movement. Police say the case filing process is underway as they continue to verify motives and identify all participants involved.

Two members of the July Revels organization were injured in an attack in Dhaka’s Uttara area on Saturday evening. The incident occurred on a road in Sector 4 as the pair were returning from a human chain protest related to the earlier shooting of Osman Hadi. Witnesses said unidentified assailants struck them with sticks before fleeing the scene. The injured were taken to USB Specialized Hospital near Rajuk College for treatment. Police sources confirmed the assault took place around 6:30 p.m., though the attackers’ identities remain unknown. Uttara Division Deputy Commissioner Shahriar Hossain told *Amar Desh* that investigators received conflicting statements regarding the circumstances of the attack and are verifying the details. No arrests have been made so far. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from nearby areas to identify the perpetrators. The incident has raised safety concerns among members of the July Revels group, who have recently been active in public demonstrations following the Osman Hadi shooting.

Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Sadik Kayem has expressed regret over a misunderstanding caused by his earlier social media post following reports that Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the Inquilab Mancha and potential independent candidate for Dhaka-8, had been shot. In a Facebook post on Saturday night, Kayem clarified that his choice of words led to confusion and apologized for any misinterpretation. Kayem also praised BNP leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi for retracting a statement that had been influenced by AI-generated images and misinformation, calling it a positive step toward improving political culture. He emphasized that democratic politics should allow debate and disagreement, but not rely on fake or unverified content. Kayem reiterated his commitment to building a just Bangladesh while remaining vigilant against what he described as authoritarian and violent political forces. The apology has been noted as an example of accountability in political communication amid growing concerns over misinformation and AI-generated content in Bangladesh’s political discourse.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami chief Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of six Bangladeshi peacekeepers killed in a terrorist attack on a United Nations base in Abyei, Sudan. The attack also left eight others injured, according to official reports. The peacekeepers were serving under the UN mission in the conflict-prone region when the assault occurred. In a Facebook post on Saturday, Dr. Rahman paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, describing them as brave members of the Bangladesh Army who sacrificed their lives for global peace. He offered prayers for the deceased, extended condolences to their families, and wished the injured a speedy recovery. The Jamaat chief strongly condemned the attack and urged the international community to take effective measures to ensure the safety of peacekeepers worldwide. The incident has sparked renewed concern over the security of UN missions in volatile regions like Abyei, where peacekeepers often face militant threats. Bangladesh, one of the largest troop contributors to UN peacekeeping, has lost several soldiers in similar attacks in recent years.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths and injuries of Bangladeshi peacekeepers following a terrorist attack on a United Nations peacekeeping base in Sudan’s Abyei region. In a verified Facebook post late Saturday, Rahman said he was heartbroken by the loss of six Bangladeshi soldiers and the injuries of eight others, including three women, who were serving under the UN flag. Rahman described the fallen soldiers as national heroes whose sacrifice for global peace would remain forever honored. He extended condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. As the son of a former army officer, Rahman said he has always been inspired by the professionalism and courage of the Bangladesh Army. He also called on the international community to take stronger measures to ensure the safety of peacekeepers deployed in conflict zones, emphasizing the need for more effective global cooperation to prevent such tragedies.

A banned Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) leader at Rajshahi University, Asadullah Hil Galib, has issued a death threat to Rajshahi University Central Students’ Union (RUCSU) General Secretary Salahuddin Ammar through a Facebook post on Friday, December 12. The post, made from Galib’s verified account, also received public support from the university BCL president, Mostafizur Rahman Babu. In the post, Galib warned Ammar to increase his security and avoid traveling alone, implying potential harm if ignored. Babu commented under the post, praying that Ammar’s life be spared. When contacted, Ammar said he was aware of the post but not concerned, adding that such threats from political pages were frequent and did not intimidate him. He emphasized his commitment to continue his duties without fear. The incident has sparked renewed debate over campus safety and the influence of banned political groups in public universities, with calls for authorities to investigate and ensure student security.

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has expressed deep sorrow and concern over the deaths and injuries of Bangladeshi peacekeepers in a drone attack on a United Nations base in Abyei, Sudan. According to an official statement released on Saturday night, six Bangladeshi soldiers were killed and eight others injured when armed militants launched a sudden drone strike on the UN peacekeeping mission site. In his message, Yunus described the fallen peacekeepers as national heroes who sacrificed their lives while upholding global peace and stability. He extended condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. The Chief Adviser said the government has requested the UN to ensure the best possible medical care and support for the wounded personnel. Condemning the attack as a grave crime against international peace and humanity, Yunus urged the United Nations and the global community to strengthen security measures for peacekeepers. The government will continue close coordination with the UN to repatriate the bodies and ensure treatment for the injured.

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, stated that his family is deeply concerned about his safety ahead of the upcoming national elections. In a Facebook post on Saturday, December 13, he revealed that his wife, children, and siblings have urged him to remain cautious, though he personally does not feel afraid. His remarks came days after a violent shooting incident that left political observers alarmed. In his post, Alam reflected on completing 16 months in his role and expressed solidarity with the youth who, he said, have taken leadership in shaping the country’s political direction. He criticized what he described as oppressive governance and praised the new generation’s determination to continue their mission for democratic reform. He also commemorated several young activists who lost their lives in recent months, portraying them as symbols of resilience. Alam concluded by expressing confidence in Bangladesh’s future, acknowledging potential domestic and foreign challenges but asserting that the nation’s youth remain fearless and committed to change.

Former BNP lawmaker and decorated freedom fighter Major (Retd.) Akhtaruzzaman has formally joined Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami after being expelled five times from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Once a two-time MP from Kishoreganj-2 and former district BNP president, Akhtaruzzaman announced his decision at Jamaat’s central office in Dhaka, calling the Islamist party 'patriotic' and accusing BNP of inconsistency and falsehoods about the Liberation War. He argued that BNP’s leadership, particularly Tarique Rahman, misrepresented Jamaat’s role in 1971, claiming that the war was fought against Pakistani forces, not Jamaat. Akhtaruzzaman criticized BNP’s shifting alliances and divisive politics, saying the party failed to unite opposition forces after August 5. He also alleged that both BNP and Jamaat have faced state repression under the Awami League government. His defection underscores growing rifts within Bangladesh’s opposition bloc and may complicate future coalition-building efforts ahead of national political realignments.

Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh has called for nationwide prayers for the recovery of Sharif Osman Hadi, an independent candidate from Dhaka-8 and convener of the Inquilab Mancha, who was critically injured in a shooting incident. The appeal was made through a statement issued by the group’s Amir Allama Muhibullah Babunagari and Secretary General Allama Sajedur Rahman on Saturday evening. In the statement, Hefazat leaders described Hadi as a patriotic and courageous voice of the new generation, alleging that he was targeted by what they termed as 'Awami fascist forces'. They urged citizens, mosques, and madrasas across the country to pray for his swift recovery and demanded the immediate arrest and exemplary punishment of those responsible for the attack. The organization also accused ruling political elements of attempting to suppress dissent through violence and called on the interim government to adopt a zero-tolerance policy against political terrorism. Hefazat emphasized that ensuring law and order is crucial for holding a fair and peaceful national election.

Six Bangladeshi soldiers serving as UN peacekeepers were killed and eight others injured when militants attacked a United Nations base in Abyei, Sudan, according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Saturday, December 13. The attack targeted a Bangladeshi contingent deployed under the UN peacekeeping mission in the volatile region. The Bangladesh Army confirmed the casualties through its verified Facebook page, noting that the situation in Abyei remains unstable and clashes with armed groups are ongoing. Authorities have launched emergency medical and evacuation operations for the wounded personnel. The ISPR added that further details will be shared once more information becomes available. The incident underscores the persistent security challenges faced by UN peacekeepers in conflict-prone areas like Sudan. Bangladesh, one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, has lost several soldiers in similar attacks over the years. The government is expected to review security measures for its deployed forces and coordinate with the UN for enhanced protection.