Bangladesh police said they might have killed a hostage during the siege at Dhaka's Holey Artisan Bakery late on Friday night, wrongly assuming that he was one of the terrorists. Saiful Islam Chowkidar, the victim in question, was a pizza-maker at the café, a senior police official told Reuters.
Security forces had launched a counter operation after terrorists stormed the café late on July 1. More than 100 commandos were called in to end the siege, in which 20 civilians and two police personnel were killed.
The Islamic State initially claimed responsibility for the attack, but Bangladesh authorities believe the Jamaat-ul-Mujahidden, a terror outfit based in the country, was behind the strike. Six terrorists were killed during the operation, and one was captured alive. Investigators are now looking for six accomplices who are believed to have worked with the attackers.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!