Intelligence agencies identifying Hefazat financiers

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal on Wednesday said intelligence agencies are trying to identify the financers of Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh.

“Intelligence agencies are working to identify those who provide financial support to Hefazat. We have already learned some information about them, but we don't want to disclose that now.  We will inform everyone once the investigation is over,” the home minister said while speaking to reporters at his Dhanmondi residence on Wednesday.

 “Everything, from where the money is coming from to how much is going into whose account, will be dug up through the investigation,” he added.

The home minister further said: "As per our investigation, Hefazat-e-Islam carried out violence with an aim of repeating the anarchy at Shapla Chattar in 2013.

“They certainly had political ambition. Our law enforcement agencies are investigating various secret activities of the organisation,” Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal said.

He said the constitution of Hefazat-e-Islam clearly states that they will not be involved in any political issue and remain above politics. “But we have noticed that identified terrorists and militants have become involved in politics and are creating a volatile situation in the country.”

When asked about Hefazat Ameer Babunagari, who has been accused in a case but is yet to face action, the minister said: “There was a case filed against Babunagari in 2013. He was arrested at that time and later he was released on bail. I can share more after getting updates on the status of the case.”

The home minister also said legal action would be taken against anyone who commits a crime.