Italy: Three of a family slain, suspect at large even after 90 days
Murder victim Kamal Uddin, his wife Hosne Jahan Momtaz, and daughter Arwa (left); prime suspect Shahadat Hossain (right). Collected photo.
More than a month and a half have passed since the murder of three Bangladeshis in Rome (Italy) taken place, but police have yet to arrest the prime suspect, Shahadat Hossain.
Immediately after the incident, authorities released the suspect's photograph and identity, issued nationwide alerts, and conducted searches, but his whereabouts remain unknown. It is also unclear whether he is hiding in Italy or has fled to another country.
On the night of June 26, Bangladeshi nationals Kamal Uddin, his wife Hosne Jahan Momtaz, and their daughter Arwa were killed in their home in Rome's Casalotti area. The couple's eldest son, Amir, was seriously injured in the attack but survived.
Shortly after the incident, the Italian police released the photograph and identity of 43-year-old Shahadat Hossain and launched a nationwide manhunt. The investigation, coordinated by the Rome Prosecutor's Office, was taken over by the police's Mobile Squad. Authorities have conducted searches at various locations, set up road checkpoints, and increased surveillance at train stations, bus terminals, airports, and border areas. Within the first few days, police received over 70 tips and potential location reports. Despite this, they have been unable to arrest him.
Immediately after the killings, investigators collected various pieces of evidence, including weapons, from the crime scene. At the same time, they analyzed the suspect's mobile phone, communication records, and social media activity.
According to reports in the Italian media, investigators have analyzed chat messages from his phone and found indications of premeditation in the slaying and plans to flee. They are also investigating whether anyone assisted him in his escape. The investigation has also looked into Shahadat's background and his network of contacts. It has emerged that he previously lived in the United Kingdom and had applied for residency permission in Italy. Reports indicate that his wife and children reside in the UK, leading investigators to also look towards London at one point during the probe.
However, questions are being raised as to why, despite all these efforts, the main suspect in the triple murder has not been apprehended. Questions have also been raised regarding the effectiveness of the Italian police's operations.
Investigators fear that Shahadat has been in hiding since the incident. It is believed that someone may be helping him. In late July, a report by Rai News suggested that Shahadat might have left Italy and fled to another country.
The lack of updates on the investigation's progress is heightening concern among the Bangladeshi expatriate community. Many are worried about their safety, as the accused in the killing of three members of a family has not been arrested for a prolonged period. The relatives of the victims are calling for a quick conclusion to the investigation and for the suspect to be brought to justice.
