Chattogram, Bangladesh: Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) Commissioner Hasib Aziz, a Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of police, has come under intense scrutiny following the recent leak of an audio recording of his wireless communication. In the viral clip, Aziz is allegedly heard instructing subordinates to use excessive force against leaders and activists of the Awami League and its affiliated organizations, sparking widespread controversy.
A Rapid Rise Amid Controversy
Aziz, whose career saw a dramatic rise after August 5, was appointed as CMP Commissioner despite having limited field experience. His grandfather was reportedly a Razakar from Shariatpur, while his father, former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Azizul Haque, briefly served as an advisor in President Iajuddin Ahmed’s caretaker government. During the 1/11 political crisis, Haque allegedly went into hiding in India.
A member of the 15th BCS cadre, Aziz joined the police force in 1995 during the BNP government, with allegations that his recruitment was facilitated through political connections. During his training at the Sarda Police Academy, reports suggest he frequently bypassed key training requirements by leveraging his father’s influence.
Allegations of Misconduct and Personal Scandals
Throughout his career, Aziz has been linked to multiple scandals, particularly concerning inappropriate relationships with female colleagues. While serving in the Armed Police Battalion, he was reportedly caught in a compromising situation by then-Additional IGP Siddiqur Rahman, leading to disciplinary action and a transfer to a less significant training center. His promotions were delayed on several occasions due to departmental inquiries into his conduct.
Following his appointment as CMP Commissioner, Aziz allegedly ensured that a female officer linked to previous scandals was transferred to a key position within CMP. Their relationship has become an open secret, according to sources. A particularly controversial incident involved the duo taking leave together and staying overnight at a resort in Gazipur, which triggered local protests. While the matter was reportedly covered up by Gazipur’s Commissioner, it is said to have displeased the Home Affairs Advisor.
Targeting the Hindu Community?
Since taking office in Chattogram, Aziz has faced accusations of persecuting the Hindu community, which holds significant political influence in the region. His tenure saw the controversial arrest of Hindu leader Chinmoy under the Anti-Terrorism Act, allegedly without proper government approval. The incident led to a series of police actions that many believe were aimed at intimidating the Hindu community.
Widespread allegations suggest that Aziz’s crackdown was designed to incite communal tensions and reduce the Hindu community’s political influence. Reports indicate that police brutality escalated following protests against Chinmoy’s arrest, raising concerns over human rights violations.
Corruption and Alleged Crackdown on Awami League Leaders
Beyond political suppression, Aziz has been accused of engaging in corruption through police postings, ration distribution, and procurement deals. Sources claim he has amassed significant wealth through illegal means. Despite opportunities for promotion, he has reportedly refused to leave Chattogram, stating his intent to weaken Awami League’s presence in the city before moving on.
Under his leadership, there have been multiple instances of police action against Awami League leaders and activists. In one shocking case, a police raid on a wedding ceremony at the Navy Convention Center—allegedly in search of Awami League members—resulted in chaos, with claims of looting by law enforcement officers.
Command Through Fear and Alleged Abuse of Power
Aziz’s style of leadership has reportedly created unrest within the police force. Sources say that he sets daily arrest targets for police station Officers-in-Charge (OCs), demanding direct updates each morning. Normally, such orders would be relayed through Deputy Commissioners, but Aziz allegedly bypasses standard protocols, issuing instructions himself over wireless communication.
Several officers have expressed frustration over his use of abusive language, sometimes while allegedly intoxicated. Internal dissatisfaction is reportedly growing, with some warning that it could lead to serious unrest within CMP.
A Commissioner Under Scrutiny
The allegations against Hasib Aziz paint a troubling picture of a police official accused of political bias, corruption, and personal misconduct. While no official action has been taken yet, rising discontent within the force and among political circles suggests that his tenure in Chattogram may not remain uncontested for long.
As the controversy unfolds, authorities may be forced to investigate the growing list of accusations against the CMP Commissioner, determining whether his leadership serves justice—or a hidden political agenda.