Hunt for bombers still active in Khulna city

The operation followed intelligence reports that extremists are trying to regroup in north of Khulna city, comprising areas under Khalishpur, Daulatpur and Khanjahan Ali police stations.

The reports said at least 100 bombers aged between 16 and 20 recruited by Islamist militant groups are still active and may go for action any moment. Most of these youths are from slum areas, according to KMP sources.

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Besides, there are 49 listed bomb makers wanted by police. They can make powerful bombs only in 10 to 15 minutes if they are provided with necessary ingredients, said a source in an intelligence agency.

The listed bombers belonging to outlawed Purba Banglar Communist Party (PBCP-Janajuddho) made 12 bomb attacks in city in last eleven months, killing five leaders of BNP and Jaitiya Party and maiming five others including AL leader Shaikh Yunus Ali.

Khulna city Awami League General Secretary Mizanur Rahman while talking to this correspondent expressed grave concern over regrouping of outlaws in Khulna city and recruitment by Islamist militant outfits.

He blamed BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami for harbouring bombers and bomb makers to serve their hidden political purposes.

Shaharuzzaman Martuza, member-secretary of Khulna city BNP convening committee, however brushed aside the accusation, saying the bombers belong to a group in Awami League leaders and they could be used to create anarchy in the city.

City Ameer of Jamaat Mian Golam Parwar MP accused law enforcers of lax vigilance, giving further scope to extremists to raise their heads.

Police Commissioner Khan Saeed Hasan said the special combing operation has been launched to nab bombers and extremists. He did not rule out the possibility of sudden increase in terrorist activities in the city. Rab (Rapid Action Battalion) intelligence men are hunting for bombers and bomb makers, he said.