BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has strongly criticised the government for failing to arrest the prime suspect behind the brutal killing of scrap trader Sohag, near Mitford Hospital in Old Dhaka.

Addressing an event marking the anniversary of the July-August uprising and commemorating the martyrs on Saturday (July 12), Tarique said that while Sohag may have had connections with Jubo Dal, the actual killer was reportedly brought in from outside.

“The one who carried out this killing has not even been named as an accused yet. Why not? Why hasn’t he been arrested? Others have been picked up, but not him,” he said while speaking to family members of the July uprising martyrs.

He reaffirmed BNP’s firm stance that no one involved in crime will find shelter within the party.

“We have never said anyone should be spared. Whoever commits a crime must face justice. The party will not protect any wrongdoer,” Tarique said.

He questioned the role of law enforcement, pointing out that it is under the government’s command — not BNP’s. “We have done our part organisationally. But why is the administration silent? Who controls the law enforcers if not the government?” he asked.

Tarique also warned of an “invisible clique” that, he claimed, continues to plot against Bangladesh, creating unrest by turning baseless matters into crises.

The event, organised by Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, was also addressed by BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi Ahmed, and Student Affairs Secretary Rakibul Islam Bakul.

Chhatra Dal President Rakibul Islam Rakib chaired the programme, which was conducted by General Secretary Nasir Uddin Nasir. Family members of the July martyrs were also present.

MN/