“If Hasina returns in December, they could not do anything”

The officer-in-charge (OC) of Cantonment Police Station, Md Rakibul Hasan, has been withdrawn and attached to the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) headquarters following the circulation of an audio clip on social media in which he allegedly made controversial remarks about the government, administration and police.

Md Aktar Hossain, deputy commissioner (media) of the DMP, confirmed the matter today.

He said Rakibul was withdrawn for “administrative reasons” and attached to DMP headquarters.

The audio clip went viral on social media last night. In it, a voice, allegedly that of the OC, is heard criticising the government, administration, Bangladesh Army and the police force.

The police on the streets are very weak. If Sheikh Hasina returns in December, they could not do anything, the voice is heard saying.

In the call recording, the speaker also alleged that senior police officials were leaning towards the BNP, while police personnel on the ground were not.

It described alleged bribery within the police force and spoke about police postings being secured through bribes.

The DMP officials said the contents of the audio clip would be examined and appropriate action would be taken against the OC, if necessary.

Contacted on his official phone, Rakibul did not respond.