Dhaka, Dec 22 (V7N)- Police have so far arrested 17 people in connection with the attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, while 31 suspects have been identified through CCTV footage.

The information was disclosed at a briefing held at the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Media Center on Monday (December 22) afternoon.

Police officials said that cases have been filed under four different laws, including provisions of the Penal Code, Cyber laws, and the Anti-Terrorism Act. Efforts are ongoing to arrest the remaining identified suspects.

Responding to questions about why police did not take tougher action during the incidents, officials said restraint was exercised to avoid casualties. However, they assured that law enforcement will remain more vigilant in the future if similar intelligence is received.

Police also urged the public to remain alert, noting that some known individuals are using online platforms to incite unrest. Assistance from citizens has been sought in identifying and reporting those involved in the attacks.

Earlier, the Chief Advisor’s Press Wing said that nine people had been arrested on suspicion of involvement in attacks on two national dailies and two cultural organizations. Law enforcement agencies carried out raids in various parts of the country, including Dhaka, to make the arrests.

Investigations into the incidents are continuing.

END/SMA/AJ