Salman Shah murder: Don denied bail

Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Monjurul Islam passed the order in the afternoon after hearing a bail petition filed by Don’s lawyer, Mofizul Islam.

During the hearing, the defence argued that Don is physically unwell and the sole earning member of his family. The lawyers also claimed that an analysis of two inquest reports, two post-mortem reports, the viscera report and the chemical examination report indicated that Salman Shah had died by suicide. On these grounds, they argued that Don was entitled to bail.

Don was sent to jail on September 9 after completing a five-day remand.

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID), however, told the court that Don had withheld important information during interrogation. Investigators also claimed that their analysis of his conduct and movements before, during and after Salman Shah’s death had yielded evidence indicating his possible involvement in the case.

After the remand, CID Inspector and investigation officer Md Mujibul Rahman produced Don before the court and sought his continued detention, saying it was necessary in the interest of the investigation.

According to the CID petition, Don acknowledged knowing several absconding accused during interrogation but allegedly concealed important information about the case.

The investigation agency also said Don had been a close friend of Salman Shah and frequently moved with him, making him knowledgeable about various aspects of the actor’s life.

The CID further alleged that Don was evasive and strategic when questioned about Salman Shah’s death and the circumstances surrounding the case. Investigators said they were examining all available information because of the highly publicised and sensational nature of the case.

The CID described Don as someone who had allegedly concealed significant information about the incident and said he could be questioned again, with the court’s permission, if necessary.

Don was arrested by immigration police at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on August 9 and was subsequently sent to jail through a court order. On August 20, the investigating officer sought a seven-day remand. The court later granted five days of remand for interrogation on August 27.