A student activist from Bangladesh, wanted in connection with the killing of a Hindu police officer during last year’s unrest, has been arrested at Indira Gandhi International Airport while allegedly attempting to flee to Europe, officials said. The activist, identified as Ahmed Raza Hasan Mehdi, was later deported to Bangladesh.

Mehdi, a resident of Habiganj, is accused of involvement in the murder of Sub-Inspector Santosh Chowdhury on August 5, 2024. The incident occurred amid widespread protests and violence that led to major political changes in the country. Chowdhury was attacked during an assault on a police station, and his body was later found hanging from a tree. That same day, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country as protests escalated, with multiple reports of arson and looting across several regions.

According to sources, a video that circulated on social media allegedly showed Mehdi claiming responsibility for the killing. Chowdhury had married less than a year before the unrest began. Three months after his death, his wife gave birth to their son, making the child the only grandson in the family.

Reports indicate that the violence began when students and local residents organised a march to protest earlier deaths. As protesters approached the Baniachang police station, police reportedly opened fire, killing six people. Enraged demonstrators then surrounded the station, set it on fire, and attacked officers inside. Chowdhury was reportedly lynched and burned during the mob violence.