DHAKA, October 16, 2026 — Law enforcement agencies in Bangladesh must immediately conduct an impartial and transparent investigation to identify and arrest those responsible for the murder of journalist Lutfuzzaman Fakir, ensure appropriate punishment, and guarantee a safe environment for independent journalism, Bangladesh Media Monitor (BDMM) said in a statement.
The organization expressed deep anger, sorrow, and concern over the brutal killing of the 36-year-old news correspondent in Netrokona. BDMM noted that its official statement was published on its social media handles today, Friday, in both Bangla and English.
According to reports from multiple media outlets and information collected by BDMM’s media observer, two assailants shot Alif Fakir at close range on the night of October 15 while he was standing in front of a shop near his in-laws’ home in Telujia village, Birishiri Uttrail under Durgapur Upazila. Fakir, who served as the district correspondent for Ruposhi Bangla and managed a Facebook page titled “Detective Article,” died at the scene.
Sources familiar with the matter indicate that the journalist may have been targeted for rejecting unethical proposals from individuals involved in border smuggling and illicit businesses. BDMM questioned why local administration and law enforcement agencies failed to take effective measures or ensure his safety after he survived a separate armed attack several months earlier, warning that inaction after prior attacks emboldens criminals.
Expressing grave concern over prolonged judicial delays and the lack of accountability in cases of violence against media workers, BDMM warned that without timely justice, the safety of independent journalism remains at serious risk. The organization called on authorities to swiftly resolve all pending cases involving attacks on journalists and establish a secure atmosphere for free reporting in Bangladesh.