Attempted Murder Case Brings Fresh Arrest for Momtaz

Former Member of Parliament and renowned singer Momtaz Begum has been shown arrested in another case linked to the anti-discrimination student movement, this time in connection with an attempted murder case filed over an incident in Mirpur, Dhaka.

The order was issued on Wednesday (24 June) by Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Ariful Islam following an application submitted by the police. Earlier in the day, investigators produced Momtaz before the court and sought permission to show her arrested in the case, arguing that preliminary evidence indicated her alleged involvement in the incident under investigation.

The application was filed by Sub-Inspector Azizul Haque of Mirpur Model Police Station, who is overseeing the investigation. During the hearing, Dhaka Metropolitan Public Prosecutor Omar Faruk Faruqui represented the prosecution and supported the request to formally include Momtaz as an arrested suspect in the case.

According to the prosecution’s submission, investigators have gathered evidence that warrants further inquiry into the allegations. The court was informed that the investigation remains ongoing and that additional questioning of the accused may be necessary in the future. Police also indicated that a remand application could be sought at a later stage if further interrogation is considered essential to the investigation.

Case documents state that the incident occurred on 4 August 2024 during the anti-discrimination student protests. The complainant, Md Muktar Hossain, alleged that he joined demonstrations in the area between Mirpur Swimming Complex and the Fire Service Road. According to the complaint, police and individuals associated with the Awami League launched an operation to disperse protesters, during which gunfire and attacks allegedly took place.

Muktar Hossain claimed that he was struck by a rubber bullet fired by police, sustaining injuries to his chest and other parts of his body. He later received treatment at Kurmitola Hospital. Following the incident, he filed an attempted murder case, in which Momtaz Begum has now been shown arrested as a suspect.

Momtaz was previously arrested on the night of 12 May 2025 by officers of the Dhaka Metropolitan Detective Branch from a residence located behind Star Kabab in the Dhanmondi area of the capital. The following day, a Dhaka court granted a four-day remand for questioning in connection with other legal proceedings.

Since then, she has remained in custody. The latest court order adds another legal challenge for the former lawmaker and artist as investigations into multiple cases linked to the political unrest continue.

Authorities have stated that inquiries are still underway and that the final determination of responsibility will depend on the outcome of the ongoing investigation and subsequent judicial proceedings.