Investigation into State Minister Ishraq Hossain’s Public Display of Firearm
Police have ordered an investigation into the public display of a firearm by Liberation War Affairs State Minister Ishraq Hossain during an anti-drug operation in Dhaka.
Dhaka Metropolitan Police Detective Branch (DB) Chief Shafiqul Islam confirmed the investigation at a press briefing held at the DMP Media Centre on Sunday. The Deputy Commissioner of the Wari Division has been assigned to examine whether any laws were violated during the operation.
The incident took place on Saturday, October 17, when Ishraq Hossain joined an anti-drug drive in Dhaka-6, reportedly targeting suspected drug-selling locations near Dayaganj Ghuntighar, close to the Gandaria railway station.
A video shared on social media showed the state minister holding a firearm while directing people during the operation. He initially posted the footage on his verified Facebook account, but it was later deleted.
The incident sparked public debate over the use of firearms during such operations. In response to criticism, Ishraq Hossain said the weapon was legally owned and denied threatening anyone or firing shots. He also claimed that residents had repeatedly complained about drug-related activities in the area and that previous requests for police intervention had not led to effective action.
Police said the investigation would determine whether any legal violations occurred. If evidence of misconduct or unlawful activity is found, appropriate legal action will be taken.
Reporting by Borderless for The Borderless Journal. Filed under Uncategorized · 18 Oct 2026, 16:00.
