The Special Branch (SB) of Police has expressed regret over a recent incident at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, which led renowned editor Nurul Kabir to claim that he was harassed by police officers.
In response to the allegations, the SB has initiated an investigation into the matter and has subsequently withdrawn the officer accused of harassing the editor of New Age.
The unfortunate episode has been linked to the creation of an extensive "blocked list" by the previous government under Sheikh Hasina, the SB said.
This list, which included thousands of individuals, was intended to obstruct their travels abroad, particularly targeting dissidents, journalists, rights activists, and others with perceived political opposition.
With the transition to the interim government, the Special Branch has begun removing individuals connected to the former administration, alongside dissidents, journalists, and human rights activists, from the blocked list.
Much of this task is currently being carried out manually, which has resulted in certain names, including those of journalists and dissidents, still remaining on the list. The Special Branch has assured that efforts to expedite the cleanup process are now underway.
The police force has reiterated their regret over the incident, expressing that the Bangladesh Police, as guardians of public safety, are committed to serving the nation with the utmost professionalism and integrity.
