RAB Director General (DG) and Additional IGP AKM Shahidur Rahman at a press conference. Photo : Collected

DHAKA, Jan 4, 2026 (BSS) – Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) Director General (DG) and Additional IGP AKM Shahidur Rahman today said his force  is working with utmost sincerity and dedication to ensure the upcoming national elections are free, fair, impartial and festive.

“The elite force is also maintaining relentless efforts to uphold overall law and order across the country. We are optimistic that the nation would witness a peaceful and beautiful election,” he said. 

He made the remarks at a press conference held at the RAB Media Center in Karwan Bazar. 

The RAB chief said intensive operations are underway to arrest Faisal Karim Masud, the prime accused in the murder of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Mancha, along with his associate Alamgir Sheikh. 

Sharif  Osman Hadi was shot dead on December 12.

“Immediately after the incident, RAB launched an investigation with maximum capacity. Between December 12 and 16, eight people directly and indirectly involved in the murder were arrested and two pistols used in the crime were recovered,” he said.

He added that Faisal and Alamgir are still absconding, but efforts to arrest them will continue. 

Responding to a question about reports of their possible escape to India, the DG said their locations are being traced using both technological and manual methods, and all legal steps will be taken to bring them back once their whereabouts are confirmed.

The RAB chief also informed that seven people have been arrested and handed over to police in connection with the killing of Dipu Chandra Das by an agitated mob on December 18 over allegations of insulting religion.

Regarding other recent incidents, he said one person has been arrested through shadow investigation in the double murder case at the Khulna court premises on December 17, while drives are ongoing to identify and arrest others involved.

He further said a saboteur was arrested with 14 crude bombs in Bagharpara of Jessore. In connection with an explosion at a madrasa in Keraniganj, five cocktails and various chemicals were recovered, and two people, including the prime accused Al-Amin, were arrested.

In addition, the RAB chief said operations are continuing to arrest those involved in attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star.