Dhaka, Nov 19 (V7N) — Former Food Minister and Awami League Presidium member Kamrul Islam was remanded for eight days in connection with the murder case of businessman Wadud under Newmarket Police Station. The remand order was issued by the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Court of Dhaka during a hearing on Tuesday.

Kamrul Islam was arrested earlier in the day from Uttara Sector-12. He faces multiple cases, including charges of murder. During the hearing, Kamrul made an emotional statement, saying, "Don't give up on this day, better days will come. Every day is not the same." He denied any involvement in the Newmarket murder case, asserting, "Newmarket is not my area. I am not the MP of that constituency. My name may have been added to the list at the last moment."

Kamrul Islam, a lawyer by profession and life member of Dhaka and Supreme Court Bars, further argued, "I have done no wrong and held no government responsibility recently."

State lawyer Azizul Haque Didar countered these claims, alleging Kamrul’s involvement in planning murders, including holding meetings with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. These comments caused a stir in the courtroom, with lawyers expressing frustration at Kamrul’s remarks.

Following the hearing, the court denied Kamrul’s bail application and granted police an eight-day remand. The remand period will be used to investigate his alleged involvement in the murder and other cases.

Kamrul Islam served as the Food Minister from January 2014 to January 2019 and was previously the State Minister for Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs. He represented the Dhaka-2 Constituency in Parliament. Since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government on August 5, 2024, Kamrul had reportedly been in hiding.

This arrest marks a significant development in ongoing efforts to hold prominent figures accountable for alleged criminal activities. Further investigations are underway.

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