2 'regional commanders' of JMB chargesheeted, names of 15 dropped

The charge sheet was submitted to a Magistrate court on Sunday against Matin Mehdi alias Motiul Islam, son of Enamul Huq of Bridge Road in Gaibandha and Abdul Aziz, son of late Kalimuddin of Fulchari upazila.

Police said their investigation proved that the Matin Mehdi and Abdul Aziz were 'regional commanders' of JMB (Jamaatul Mujahideen, Bangladesh). They said Matin Mehdi has also chargesheetd by Jhenidah police for involvement with JMB there. Both are absconding since the incident.

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Those relieved from charges are Mofazzal Hossain, ATM Taibur Rahman Prodhan, Rafiqul Islam, Jaharul Huq Sarker, Jahid Raihan Simul, Sanowarul Islam, Khalilullah Jwel, Abdul Jalil, Atiqur Rahman, Azizul, Piyere Alam, Sohorab, Mosharaf Hossain, Delwer Hossain and Rashedul Islam Naju.

Police said names the 15 were dropped from the list of accused as they could not collect 'adequate evidence' regarding their involvement with JMB and in the August 17 blasts.

The charge sheet was submitted under the Explosive Act 1908 and the Special Powers Act.

After the serial bomb blasts, police on at different times arrested 17 people from different areas of Gaibandha district.

Police during drives recovered four live bombs, batteries, electric wire and bomb making materials, JMB leaflets and books and letters to militants from their leaders.

In the charge sheet, police mentioned 26 witnesses to the August 17 bomb blasts in the district. The witnesses testified before a Magistrate under Section 164.