Court Grants 6-Day Remand for Asif Mahtab and Arif Sohail in Setu Bhavan Arson Case

The Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate's Court, presided over by Judge Moinul Islam, has granted a 6-day remand for Asif Mahtab, a former BRAC University teacher, and Arif Sohail, a student at Jatiyo Bishwavidyalaya (Jabi). The remand is in connection with their alleged involvement in the attack and arson at Setu Bhavan during the recent quota reform protests.

The Detective Branch (DB) of the police had requested a 10-day remand for both individuals to facilitate a thorough investigation into the case. The court's decision came after a hearing on Monday, during which the defense counsel, Syed Zainul Abedin Mejbah, confirmed the remand order to Dhaka Post.

Arrests and Allegations:

• Asif Mahtab was apprehended from his residence in Sector 9, Uttara, at approximately 1 a.m. on July 28 by DB personnel, according to his younger sister, Nafisa Tasnim.
• Arif Sohail was reportedly taken from his rented house on July 27 around 4 p.m., as confirmed by his younger sister, Umm Khair Eid.

Details of the Incident: According to the complaint filed by Rabiul Islam, the caretaker of Setu Bhavan, the attack occurred on July 18. The complaint alleges that 250 to 300 protesters, equipped with domestic weapons, batons, and bricks, stormed Setu Bhavan, breaking gates and vandalizing various facilities. The damages included:

• Destruction of vehicles, including jeeps, cars, and buses.
• Vandalism of office interiors from the ground floor to the 11th floor, including computers, furniture, and office equipment.
• Extensive damage estimated at approximately 300 crores BDT, encompassing both public and private property.

The attackers allegedly injured senior staff and security personnel, and set multiple fires within the building.