Bangladesh Police Say Hadi Murder Was Politically Motivated

January 7, 2026

Bangladesh police have described the killing of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi as a “politically motivated murder”, alleging that the conspiracy to assassinate him was hatched in Singapore. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s Detective Branch (DMP) filed a chargesheet against 17 people in connection with the case before a metropolitan court in Dhaka.

Authorities allege that the plan to kill Hadi was not a random act but organized intentionally for political reasons, pointing to the backgrounds of the accused and their connections to organisational politics.

Chargesheet Filed Against 17 Accused

The DMP has submitted a formal chargesheet naming 17 individuals, 12 of whom have been arrested so far, while the others remain at large. The charges include criminal conspiracy and involvement in a politically driven killing of the 32‑year‑old activist.

Police officials have identified prime suspects, including Faisal Karim Masud, alleged to have direct involvement in the shooting, and Taizul Islam Chowdhury Bappi, a former councillor accused of directing the attack and aiding suspects to flee.

Hadi’s Political Role and Controversial Statement

Sharif Osman Hadi was a well‑known student leader and spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho, rising to prominence during Bangladesh’s July‑August 2024 protests that led to a change in government. His outspoken criticism of the now‑banned Awami League and its student wing, the Chhatra League, reportedly angered some political figures.

Police claim that his political statements and activism contributed to the motives behind the assassination, which occurred while he was campaigning ahead of the upcoming February 2026 general elections.

Shooting, Treatment and Death

Hadi was shot in the head on December 12 in Dhaka’s Paltan area by assailants on a moving motorcycle. He was initially treated in Dhaka before being airlifted to Singapore for advanced medical care, where he died of his injuries on December 18.

His violent death triggered widespread unrest and protests across Bangladesh, including attacks on media outlets and clashes in major cities.

Impact and Ongoing Reaction

The case has intensified political tensions in Bangladesh, with opposition groups and Hadi’s supporters demanding swift justice and comprehensive investigations. While police assert their findings of a politically motivated conspiracy, the broader political fallout continues to unfold as the nation approaches its elections.