Dhaka police have uncovered a huge financial trail worth more than Tk 127 crore connected to the murder of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, adding a new dimension to the high-profile case. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) found the suspicious transactions in bank accounts linked to the prime suspect and his associates, prompting a money-laundering probe under Bangladesh’s law.
The discovery comes nearly two weeks after Hadi was shot in Dhaka on December 12 and later died in hospital in Singapore. His death triggered massive protests and raised intense pressure on authorities to catch those responsible.
What CID Found in Banking Records?
Investigators analysed bank data linked to Faisal Karim Masud, also called Daud Khan or Rahul, the main suspect in the attack. They found abnormal financial activity exceeding Tk 127 crore in several accounts connected to him and others tied to the case.
Law enforcement officials say these transactions do not appear to be normal business dealings. They may involve money laundering, organised crime and possibly financing of other illegal activities, though the probe is still ongoing.
In addition, investigators seized chequebooks and other financial records showing unfinished transactions worth roughly Tk 218 crore, suggesting even larger money flows may be involved.
Money Laundering Investigation Launched
The CID has now opened a formal money-laundering investigation under the Money Laundering Prevention Act of 2012. Authorities are also seeking to seize about Tk 65 lakh currently held in accounts tied to the accused and related individuals, to bring them under state control.
Multiple CID teams are working to trace the sources of these funds. They are also trying to find out whether a wider organised network played a role in planning, financing or arming those who carried out the killing.
Main Suspect Still at Large
Despite the financial breakthroughs, Masud is still untraced, and police do not have confirmed information about whether he has left Bangladesh. Authorities have detained some of his associates and family members on charges of concealing evidence and helping him evade arrest.
Law enforcement has issued travel bans and nationwide lookout notices against Masud and others suspected in the case, but they remain elusive.
Impact on the Hadi Case and Public Response
Hadi’s killing has already sparked nationwide anger and protests, with demonstrators demanding swift justice. His death has also heightened political tensions ahead of the general elections scheduled in February 2026.
The new financial angle could broaden the focus of the investigation, linking the murder to possible organised crime and money-laundering networks, rather than a lone attack. This widening probe may change how the case unfolds and increase pressure on authorities to deliver results.
Why This Matters?
Osman Hadi’s killing investigation expands beyond physical evidence to financial structures. Tk 127 crore transactions may reveal hidden networks tied to the attack. Money laundering case opens new legal avenues for prosecution. Public and political stakes remain high as elections approach and justice is demanded.
