US seeks probe into attack on former Bangladesh foreign secretary Reaz Rahman

WASHINGTON: The US today sought a probe into the assassination attempt on former Bangladeshi foreign secretary Reaz Rahman and demanded that those responsible for the "cowardly" attack be brought to justice.

"The United States is shocked and saddened by the attack against former Foreign Secretary Reaz Rahman, and hope for his speedy recovery," State Department deputy spokesperson Marie Harf said.

Terming the act "outrageous and cowardly", Harf said the US condemned the use of violence for political objectives.

"We urge the government of Bangladesh to investigate, track down, and hold accountable those responsible for these acts. We urge all sides to refrain from acts of violence," Harf said.

"We call on all parties to exercise restraint and eschew violence and intimidation, and we urge the government to ensure people can freely exercise their right to peaceful political expression," she said.

A former minister and an adviser to Bangladesh opposition leader Khaleda Zia, Rahman was shot at by unidentified men yesterday while returning home after meeting the former premier.

He was a former junior minister for foreign affairs in Bangladesh Nationalist Party-led government between 2001- 2006.

Rahman was hit by four bullets - two in his leg and two in waist - after eight people on three motorbikes stopped his car and opened fire on him.

Zia, who has been confined to her office since January 3, condemned the attack and alleged that it was carried out at the instigations of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's party.

The incident came as nationwide transport blockade enforced by the BNP entered its seventh day yesterday.

Fourteen people have been killed in the political violence so far.