Those who brutally killed 12-year-old Rakibul Islam by pumping air into his rectum must be tried under the speedy trial tribunal, protesters in Khulna demanded, adding that the swift resolution of the case should set an example for the country’s justice system.
Urging the government to be alert in not letting the criminals slip through any legal loopholes, speakers at a human chain in Khulna city’s Picture Palace intersection also called upon the administration to stand beside the family of Rakib.
Khulna Deputy Commissioner Mostafa Kamal said all necessary efforts would be made to ensure a proper probe and an unbiased trial. Saying the case would be sent to the speedy trial tribunal, the DC also assured that the district administration would take initiatives to financially assist the family of the deceased.
Rakib’s parents – Nurul Alam and Lucky Begum – and younger sister Rimi also addressed those present at the human chain.
Other speakers at the programme said everyone should be aware to prevent any other child from being killed in such a vicious manner as the murder of Rakib. They also urged speedy trials for all child-murder cases.
Earlier, another procession was brought out from the same intersection by locals, while a human chain was staged at the Rupsha Stand Road demanding justice.
Meanwhile, Khulna Metropolitan Police spokesperson Sheikh Moniruzzaman Mithhu said Sub-Inspector Kazi Mostak Ahmed has been assigned to investigate the murder of Rakib. Three senior police officials including SI Mostak have also been assigned to oversee the entire probe, said Special Branch ADC Mithhu.
The three-member team yesterday visited the two main accused in Rakib murder – Md Sharif and Mintu Miah – at the prison cell of the Khulna Medical College Hospital but were unable to interrogate the suspects as they were both feeling unwell.
The police team, led by KMP Additional Commissioner Md Mahbub Hakim, also visited the crime scene at Tutpara Graveyard intersection. They also went to Rakib’s house and spoke with his parents.
Investigation Officer SI Mostak said another suspect in the case – Beauty Begum – was presented before a court on Tuesday with a plea for a 10-day remand; the court, however, set Thursday for hearing on the plea.
The other two suspects who are currently being treated at the KMCH will be brought before the court after their health improves.
Meanwhile, Rakib’s uncle Khokon Sheikh said Khulna Divisional Commissioner Abdus Samad and Khulna DC Mostafa Kamal visited Rakib’s home yesterday morning. During their visit, the officials promised all necessary help to Rakib’s parents as well as ensuring justice for the death of their child.
