Why Was a Journalist Killed After Exposing Extortion in Bangladesh?
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Synopsis
In a shocking incident in Gazipur, Bangladesh, a journalist was murdered just hours after revealing extortion activities in a live social media broadcast. This brutal killing highlights the escalating violence against media professionals and raises urgent questions about their safety and freedom of expression.
Key Takeaways
- Journalists in Bangladesh face increasing violence.
- Recent murder highlights the dangers of reporting on crime.
- Authorities are urged to ensure journalist safety.
- Press freedom is under threat in the country.
- Demands for justice and accountability are growing.
Dhaka, Aug 8 (NationPress) In yet another alarming incident of escalating violence against journalists in Bangladesh, a reporter affiliated with a local daily was brutally hacked to death in Chandana Chowrasta, Gazipur district. This horrific act occurred mere hours after he broadcasted live on social media, revealing extortion practices targeting street vendors and local businesses in the vicinity.
The victim, identified as Asaduzzaman Tuhin, aged 38, was a dedicated staff reporter for the Daily Protidiner Kagoj in Gazipur. Footage of his murder, which took place on Thursday night, quickly went viral, igniting outrage within the journalistic community.
According to Gazipur Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner Robiul Hasan, "We have secured video evidence of the crime and are following leads to apprehend the culprits. It is deeply regrettable that a journalist lost his life in such a savage manner."
The police official further detailed that the violent attack was initially aimed at an individual named Badsha Mia following a dispute involving a woman.
“Journalist Tuhin recorded footage of the incident. Fueled by anger over his recording, the assailants brutally attacked him,” Hasan remarked, asserting that initial video evidence corroborates this account.
Local media, citing eyewitness statements, reported that Tuhin was set upon by a group armed with sharp weapons, who killed him instantly.
“I was attending to my business when Tuhin burst in, followed by three men who proceeded to hack him to death. Two others stood guard outside with weapons. When I tried to intervene, they threatened my life as well. Numerous onlookers witnessed the event, yet no one intervened,” recounted businessman Khairul Islam.
In a separate incident just the day before, another journalist was severely assaulted by extortionists in the Sahapara area of Gazipur while investigating claims of extortion from auto-rickshaw drivers.
The victim, Anwar Hossain Sourav, 35, a staff reporter for Bangladesher Alo, was attacked in broad daylight, reportedly in the presence of police, and currently remains in critical condition at Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmad Medical College Hospital.
Last month, the Awami League party of Bangladesh reported that a staggering 51 journalists have expressed deep concern regarding the ongoing killings, torture, and harassment of media personnel under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.
“412 journalists face false accusations, 39 have been arrested, many without bail or trials. Over 1000 journalists have been dismissed, 168 press cards revoked, 101 press club memberships canceled, more than 100 bank accounts frozen, and over 300 journalists are under travel bans. At least 10 journalists have been murdered with no justice served," the party stated on X, citing an open letter from the journalists reported by the media outlet Daily Republic.
The journalists are calling for an immediate cessation of harassment, justice for their slain colleagues, the release of imprisoned journalists, and the restoration of the operations of the Dhaka Union of Journalists.
Bangladesh has witnessed a wave of unprovoked and violent attacks against journalists, police, minorities, and those affiliated with the Awami League following the assumption of power by the Yunus-led interim government last year.
Point of View
It is imperative to acknowledge the alarming trend of violence against journalists in Bangladesh. This recent incident not only underscores the risks faced by media personnel but also calls for urgent measures to ensure their safety and uphold the right to free speech. The media must stand united in demanding justice and accountability.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the journalist in Bangladesh?
A journalist was brutally murdered in Gazipur, Bangladesh, shortly after he went live on social media to expose extortion activities.
Who was the victim?
The victim was Asaduzzaman Tuhin, a 38-year-old reporter for the Daily Protidiner Kagoj.
Why was the journalist targeted?
He was targeted for recording footage of a violent dispute and was attacked by assailants who were angered by his presence.
What is the current state of press freedom in Bangladesh?
Press freedom in Bangladesh is under severe threat, with numerous journalists facing violence, harassment, and threats to their safety.
What actions have been taken by the authorities?
Authorities have launched an operation to apprehend the assailants involved in the journalist's murder and are investigating the incident.
