Over 1400 Police Personnel Face Legal Action and Administrative Sanctions Following July Uprising
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A total of 1,490 police personnel have been named as suspects in legal cases filed in connection with the July mass uprising, signaling a massive administrative overhaul within the force. As of the latest reports, 68 officers—including former Inspectors General of Police (IGPs), high-ranking commissioners, and senior superintendents—have been arrested, while 57 remain absconding.
In addition to criminal proceedings, the department has undertaken sweeping disciplinary measures. 141 officers have been sent into mandatory retirement, 142 have been transferred or placed as Officers on Special Duty (OSD), and 93 have been temporarily suspended for desertion.
The crackdown has triggered internal friction, with some police officials alleging that the process lacks due diligence. Several officers facing disciplinary action claim they were not present at the scene of the violence, were absent from duty rosters, or were serving in different units during the uprising. Some contend that personal rivalries and political influence have resulted in the inclusion of innocent officers in these cases, jeopardizing the careers of those without direct involvement.
Police Headquarters reports that 137 officers were initially reported absent from work following the uprising. While 80 have since returned to their posts, 57—ranging from Deputy Inspector Generals (DIGs) to constables—remain missing. Additional Inspector General of Police (Crime and Operations) Khondkar Rafiqul Islam confirmed that those with less than 25 years of service who remain fugitives will face departmental dismissal, while those with over 25 years of service face immediate termination.
The list of absconding officers includes several high-profile figures from the previous administration, such as former Special Branch chief Monirul Islam, former Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Habibur Rahman, and former detective branch chief Mohammad Harun-or-Rashid. Many of these individuals are accused of human rights abuses and the violent suppression of dissent during the protests.
Conversely, some officers claim they are victims of internal purging. Former Additional DIG Rebecca Sultana, who was sent into mandatory retirement, denied allegations regarding her conduct during the movement, asserting that she was not present at the locations in question. She stated that her name was included in disciplinary lists due to professional jealousy and administrative maneuvering.
Legal experts and former senior officials emphasize the need for a balanced approach. Former IGP Md. Abdul Qaiyum stated that while it is essential to ensure justice and hold those who violated professional ethics and human rights accountable, authorities must conduct thorough investigations to prevent the victimization of innocent personnel. He warned that the mass exodus of experienced officers and the current climate of uncertainty are creating a leadership crisis, which may severely challenge the police force’s ability to maintain law and order.
Meanwhile, the International Crimes Tribunal has already begun delivering verdicts, with some former officers receiving death sentences or life imprisonment for their roles in the violence, including the burning of bodies in Ashulia. Police Headquarters confirmed that efforts to issue Red Notices against convicted fugitives are currently underway.
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