Dhaka Court Grants Three-Day Remand for 13 Members of Banned Student Organization

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A Dhaka metropolitan court granted a three-day remand on Tuesday for 13 individuals affiliated with a banned student organization, following their arrest in connection with a case filed under the Anti-Terrorism Act. Metropolitan Magistrate Md. Jewel Rana issued the order, though he directed that a juvenile defendant be sent to a correctional facility rather than being remanded, citing the suspect’s age.

The arrests stem from a police operation initiated after officers encountered a group gathered near the Navy Headquarters on the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway in Banani at approximately 4:10 a.m. on May 16. Authorities detained one person at the scene, which led to the subsequent apprehension of the other 13 suspects on June 13.

According to the case files, investigators allege that the group members were actively plotting to topple the government. Law enforcement claims the suspects were preparing for a protest march and were in possession of leaflets and posters containing anti-government slogans. During the operation, police seized 24 PVC posters featuring political imagery, a motorcycle, and several mobile phones.

During the proceedings, Sub-Inspector Saiful Islam of Banani Police Station requested a seven-day remand to further the investigation. State prosecutor Shamsuddoha Suman argued in favor of the request, asserting that the defendants were part of a broader conspiracy. Conversely, defense attorneys sought the dismissal of the remand request and petitioned for bail, arguing that the defendants were merely watching a World Cup match at the time of the incident and had no formal ties to political organizations.

In his remand application, the investigating officer noted that the suspects had provided initial confessions regarding their involvement. Police contend that extended interrogation is necessary to uncover the full scope of the plot, identify potential financiers and planners, and track down other suspects who remain at large.