The six coordinators of the quota reform movement, who were detained by the Detective Branch (DB) for security and questioning, will soon be released, said Harun-or-Rashid, chief of the Detective Branch of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP).
“We are in discussions with them and their families. They will be released to their families very soon,” said Harun while talking to reporters at the DB office’s main gate on Monday, (29 July).
The DB chief said, “The allegation that these six coordinators were forced to issue statements to stop the quota reform movement is baseless. Those spreading such rumors are requested to refrain from doing so. The DB is a place of trust; no one is detained without reason, and no one is forced to make statements. They have instead realized that the government has accepted all their demands. They have provided written statements explaining their withdrawal from the movement.”
Harun further explained, “These six coordinators were brought here for their safety. Their families have been assured that they are well. The families visited the DB office and have seen for themselves that they are in good condition.”
“As police officers, we believe it is our duty to look after individuals who feel unsafe. That is what we are doing,” he added.
Harun emphasized, “The quota reform movement was led by earnest students. However, a group associated with Jamaat-BNP infiltrated the movement, engaging in destructive activities, including the murder of police officers, killing civilians, and setting fire to state properties. We believe that if conspirators attempt to exploit the situation again, the safety of these coordinators could be compromised. Therefore, we need to ensure their security.”
