B'desh cops warn of strict action for circulating online content favouring militancy

The Bangladesh Police on Wednesday warned of strict action for uploading and sharing over social media any kind of content in favour of militant activity, reported Star Online.

Requesting the citizens to refrain from such activities, AKM Shahidur Rahman, DIG (media and planning), Bangladesh Police, in a statement said: "Uploading, sharing, liking and commenting on any video, photo and news over online favouring Islamic State or militancy are punishable offences under the law."

"Strict action will be taken against violators under the existing law," he warned.

The warning came in the wake of a video showing three Bangla-speaking men commending Gulshan cafe attackers and threatening more such attacks in Bangladesh for establishing the rule of Shariah.

The video was reportedly released by SITE Intelligence Group on Tuesday night, believed to be recorded in the Syrian city of Raqqah a day after the Gulshan cafe attack, reported Star Online, adding that they could not be identified immediately.

One of the suspected militants spoke about their so-called jihad in Bangladesh and threatened to repeat what happened on July 1.

Two other speakers, one was covering his face, also called for jihad in the country for establishing the Shariah law.

The video is the latest since gunmen stormed the Holey Artisan Bakery in Gulshan Friday night, killing 22 people, including 17 foreigners.