Former DG of DGFI Detained in Capital
Dhaka, Bangladesh – March 26 – The Detective Branch (DB) of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) apprehended Lieutenant General (retd.) Sheikh Mamun Khaled, the former Director General of the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI), late Wednesday night. The arrest took place in the Mirpur area of the capital city following a tip-off and a subsequent raid on a residence.
Shafiqul Islam, DMP Additional Commissioner and DB Chief, confirmed the detention. He stated that Lieutenant General (retd.) Khaled is implicated in multiple legal cases, including one registered at the Mirpur Police Station. This specific case is reportedly connected to the significant political and social movements that occurred during July and August of the previous year.
As of the time of the report, authorities have not yet finalized the specific case under which Lieutenant General (retd.) Khaled will be formally arrested and charged.
Intelligence sources have indicated that the allegations against the former DGFI chief are multifaceted and serious. These reportedly include:
- Involvement of DGFI in Political Activities: Concerns have been raised regarding the alleged use of the intelligence agency’s resources and influence in political matters, a role that is considered outside its mandate.
- Controversial Role During the 1/11 Period: Lieutenant General (retd.) Khaled’s actions and decisions during the period of political upheaval in Bangladesh, often referred to as the “1/11” period, are under scrutiny. This era was marked by significant political instability and the imposition of a state of emergency.
- Irregularities Related to the Jolsiri Housing Project: Allegations of financial impropriety and mismanagement have surfaced concerning the Jolsiri housing project, with Lieutenant General (retd.) Khaled reportedly linked to these irregularities.
This recent detention follows earlier legal actions initiated against Lieutenant General (retd.) Khaled and his wife, Nigar Sultana. In May of the preceding year, a travel ban was imposed on both individuals by a court. This ban was implemented subsequent to a petition filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).
At the time the travel ban was enacted, the ACC stated that it was actively investigating allegations of financial irregularities and the accumulation of undisclosed assets against Lieutenant General (retd.) Khaled and his wife. The commission’s probe aimed to ascertain the legitimacy of their financial dealings and wealth. The current detention is understood to be related to these ongoing investigations and potential new charges.
