“We Will Not Demand Justice Anymore, Please Forgive Us”: Police Constable Shoaibur

BD Digest Report

A recent statement by Constable Shoaibur Rahman, who was arrested in connection with the protest at Rajarbagh Police Lines in Dhaka, has sparked fresh discussion and criticism. In a video message, he can be heard saying, “We will not demand justice for the police killings anymore, please forgive us.”

The statement has triggered various reactions on social media. Many are questioning whether this is an expression of remorse or a manifestation of frustration over not getting justice for a long time.

Shoaibur Rahman was arrested on charges of creating disorder within the police force and spreading provocative statements on social media in the aftermath of the 5 August 2024 incidents. A case has been filed against him under the Cyber Security Act at Shahjahanpur Police Station in the capital.

Sources involved in the investigation say that although he had been serving in the force for nearly 12 years, he was not regularly on uniform duty. Instead, he was associated with the Police Drama Group. After 5 August, during the protest at Rajarbagh, he suddenly came forward and made a statement, which later created controversy.

When produced in court from jail, he broke down emotionally in front of journalists over not getting justice for the killing of his colleagues. Some observers have commented that this could be a position taken under situational pressure.

Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies have stated that legal proceedings against him are ongoing on charges of breaching discipline and cyber-related offences.