MP Azim murder: DB Harun allegedly created fake stories for media coverage

Former DB chief Harun-Or-Rashid has been accused of providing false information to the media regarding the murder of former Jhenaidah-3 MP Anwarul Azim Anar.

Contrary to Harun’s public claims that the victim’s body was dismembered and mixed with turmeric, investigators found no evidence to support these claims.

A DB official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the accused individuals did not confess to these acts, and no corresponding evidence was discovered during the investigation.

It has been alleged that Harun had a history of fabricating stories and sharing them with reporters while leading the intelligence unit of police.

Several DB officials said Harun had the tendency to control media narratives by restricting other officials from speaking to the press.

Despite his departure from the position, fear and apprehension reportedly persist among current DB officials regarding Harun.

Out of fear, the members of the detective police were reluctant to speak out against their former chief.

However, following Sheikh Hasina’s ouster on 5 August, DB officers have now been coming forward with allegations of Harun’s alleged misconduct and arbitrary actions.

A DB official told TBS that Harun maintained strong relationships with certain journalists to ensure favourable media coverage.

“Harun would often suggest specific questions for journalists to ask during briefings and even gave them gifts,” the official said.

The former DB chief last garnered public attention following the detention of six coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement at his office.

A High Court ruling characterised the practice of bringing individuals to the DB office and seating them at a dining table as a “mockery of the nation”. The students were held in DB custody for around a week.

Amid public outcry, the notorious former Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Additional Deputy Commissioner Harun or Rashid, widely known as DB Harun, was transferred from the Detective Branch to the Crime and Operations Department.

Harun also gained notoriety for holding multiple press briefings each day, staging photo sessions with showbiz stars, engaging in torture during custody, extorting money by threatening to release videos, and a range of other controversial activities.

Harun went on hiding following the ouster of Awami League government on 5 August.