Arson Attack on ICT Prosecutor’s Home in Magura
An arson attack was carried out on the residence of Tanvir Hasan Joha, a prosecutor (Assistant Attorney General) of the International Crimes Tribunal and a digital forensic expert, in Magura. The incident took place at his residence, known as Joha Bhaban, located in front of the Magura District Judge Court, at around 10:30 pm on Thursday, December 18, according to police and eyewitnesses.
The incident occurred shortly after Tanvir Hasan Joha submitted digital documents and evidence linking Awami League President, the Home Minister, and several party leaders and government-affiliated individuals to mass killings during the July mass uprising. It also followed his announcement that he would reveal the digital footprints of those responsible for the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi.
Tanvir Joha is the nephew of Bangladesh Television Director General Mahbubul Alam. Reacting to the arson attack, Joha said he would not retreat or remain silent. “I will not stop. I will not turn away. Those who killed Hadi will be unmasked—by name, one by one, slowly. This is not anger; this is resolve. This is justice taking its time. No influence, no uniform, no excuse can protect a murderer. Truth has a nature—it reveals itself. Evidence does not forget. I will see this through to the end, Insha’Allah,” he said.
Eyewitnesses reported that miscreants used octane fuel brought in two-litre water bottles to set fire to the window area of the building. Upon hearing screams after the fire broke out, nearby residents rushed to the scene and managed to control the flames using water and other materials. Their swift action prevented major damage and possible loss of life. However, the incident triggered widespread fear and anxiety across the area.
One eyewitness, Bajlu, said he initially thought it was an ordinary fire, but later suspected a planned arson after noticing oil-filled water bottles. Tarun Kumar, owner of a young decorators’ shop located opposite the building, said the attackers set fire taking advantage of the absence of residents, calling the act deeply alarming. The building’s caretaker, Inzar Ali Biswas, said he had stepped out to buy medicine and returned upon receiving the news, only to find the fire spreading near the windows.
Tarun Kumar, who oversees the building, said the process of filing a general diary (GD) and taking necessary legal steps is underway. Bangladesh Television Director General Mahbubul Alam termed the incident extremely concerning and said the matter is being taken seriously.
International Crimes Tribunal prosecutor Tanvir Hasan Joha described the incident as a planned and targeted attack and demanded a swift, neutral investigation to bring those responsible to justice. Magura Additional Superintendent of Police Mirajul Islam said police have visited the scene, collected evidence, and legal action will be taken following the investigation.
DBTech/JTF/IH/OR
