Killing of a journalist

The brutal murder of Mashiur Rahman Utsho, a brave young newsman, has sent a wave of fear throughout the journalist community. The police are suspecting drug peddling gangs to be behind the killing as Rahman was quite bold in his reports on drug rings in Rangpur where he worked and lived.

Journalists who investigate crime are particularly vulnerable to attacks by those they write against. This is especially true for district journalists who have little protection against powerful gangs or influential individuals. It is not the first time that a journalist has been attacked and killed in the line of duty. In such a scenario it has become increasingly difficult for reporters to write on criminal activities. This will make police work to bust criminal gangs all the more difficult. It was on the basis of Rahman's reports that the police were able to raid some of the dens of drug peddlers. Sadly, the police could not provide the security Rahman needed for taking such risks.

The law enforcers are obligated to vigorously investigate Rahman's killing as there is more at stake than seeking justice, which of course is the primary objective. Unless the killers of this courageous journalist are identified and brought to book, the practice of intimidation of the media will continue. It will only encourage criminal gangs to continue their nefarious activities without the crucial deterrent that investigative news reports provide to aid the law enforcers. 

The police must provide protection to journalists so that they can do their job without fear for their lives and those of their loved ones.