Hefazat leader Zakaria involved in attack on police in Hathazari: Police

Publicity Secretary of the now defunct committee of Hefazat – e – Islam Bangladesh, Zakaria Noman, was arrested in connection with the Hefazat riots in Hathazari of Chattogram over the arrival of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March. He has confessed to his involvement in the Hathazari violence from 26 – 28 March, according to the police.

During a press conference on Thursday evening regarding the arrest of Zakaria Noman, Chattogram District Superintendent of Police, S M Rashidul Haque, said Noman was one of the masterminds behind the attack on police in Hathazari, the vandalising of the dak bungalow, and setting the Assistant Commissioner's (Land) office on fire.

"A mobile set was seized after his arrest and we found some chats from the device which paints a picture of extramarital affairs with multiple women. During interrogation, Noman admitted to the matter and expressed regret. These are criminal offences. We will take legal action in this regard as well," Haque added.

The Superintendent of Police also said that 10 criminal cases were filed after the clashes in Hathazari which Hefazat leader Zakaria Noman is accused of in three of the cases. He is also implicated in at least three to four other cases.

The police produced Zakaria Noman in the Chattogram Judicial Magistrate's Court on Thursday and demanded a 10 day remand. The court only granted a 5 day remand.

Earlier on Wednesday, Noman was arrested from Chakaria in Cox's Bazar.