1971 defeated forces taking identities of militants

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal yesterday said the defeated forces in the Liberation War of 1971 were now appearing with the identities of militant groups like al-Qaeda, Islamic State, Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami (Huji), and Jama'atul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB).

He did not say why they were doing so but claimed that the government had been able to keep militancy under control and would not let evil forces thrive in Bangladesh.

The home boss was speaking at Moitri Festival, a cultural programme, organised by SAARC Cultural Society in the Supreme Court Bar Association Auditorium.

Reiterating that the killings of foreigners are a part of both local and international conspiracies, he said, “Investigation is going on properly. After the end of the investigation, we will tell you everything in detail. We will tell you -- Who were involved in the conspiracy? Who are the big brothers? Who gave instructions and money? What was the purpose?”

He said they were close to identifying the persons who hurled bombs at Hussaini Dalan in Old Dhaka. “We've caught one or two suspects. We'll also let you know everything about it.”