State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain has defended carrying his personally licensed firearm during an anti-drug operation in Gandaria, stating that the police force was not adequately equipped to ensure security. The Dhaka-6 MP explained that he carried the weapon as a personal security measure during the raid in Ghuntighar.
Speaking at a press conference at the National Press Club on Monday, Ishraque said he decided to act against drug networks alongside local residents and police after informing the local police station. He asserted that the police force hesitated to enter the area because suspects fired from above, noting that drugs were being distributed among students in the Ghuntighar area.
Ishraque described the Ghuntighar Munsirtek area as a notorious drug den where wealthy traders with weapons suppressed local residents. He stated that the focus of the operation had been diverted by alternative narratives, but emphasized that his sole intent was to eliminate drug trafficking rather than engage in extortion or land occupation.
During the briefing, the state minister announced that he had sought voluntary release from his responsibilities as state minister for liberation war affairs, adding that the prime minister had granted the request. He explained that he offered to step down to prevent his actions from embarrassing the prime minister or the political party.
Concluding his remarks, Ishraque offered an apology if he had made any mistakes or offended anyone, while maintaining that he had done nothing wrong. He also alleged that there is collusion between drug control officials and an international syndicate.
Why it matters
The resignation and defense of a state minister over armed intervention in a drug raid highlight significant security and administrative tensions within the government.