Flames and Forensics: Fascist Motif Arsonist Identified in DU Fine Arts Fire Incident

Authorities have identified the individual responsible for setting fire to two symbolic motifs prepared for the Bengali New Year procession at the Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Dhaka (DU). The breakthrough came through advanced analysis of CCTV footage using artificial intelligence, according to digital forensic expert Tanvir Zohar.

The footage captured a young man dressed in a black t-shirt, brown pants, a mask covering his face, and a bun tied on his head. He was seen scaling the wall to enter the Faculty of Fine Arts premises. After about two minutes, he exited. During this time, a dog barked, but the intruder paid no heed and moved toward the fascist motif located under a canopy. He briefly stepped out, ignited a lighter, and then returned to set fire to the fascist-themed effigy before fleeing the scene. Though the mask and low sodium lighting made facial identification difficult, AI-assisted analysis enabled authorities to confirm his identity.

Speaking to the media on Sunday night (April 13), Professor Saifuddin Ahmed, Proctor of the University of Dhaka, confirmed that the individual has been identified as Robiul Islam Rakib, a third-year student of the Arabic department. “He was previously involved in politics under the now-banned student group, Chhatra League,” said the proctor.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner S M Sajjad Ali stated that, “The individual accused of setting fire to the New Year’s procession motifs will be arrested before the celebration begins on Monday (April 14).”

The incident occurred early Saturday morning when the fascist face motif was deliberately set ablaze in front of the Faculty of Fine Arts. The nearby peace dove motif also sustained partial damage. The university administration has since filed a case regarding the act of arson.