Dhaka, Feb. 1 -- Md Rubel Ahmed, a close associate of Faisal Karim Masud alias Rahul-the prime accused in the murder of Inqilab Moncho spokesman Sharif Osman Hadi-has given a confessional statement in court.

Metropolitan Magistrate Mahbubur Rahman recorded the statement after Rubel was produced before the court on Saturday by the investigation officer, CID Police Assistant Superintendent Abdul Qadir Bhuiyan, following two rounds of remand totaling nine days, Prosecution Sub-Inspector Rokonuzzaman said on Sunday.

"He was sent to jail after recording the statement," the official added.

Rubel was arrested from the Ati Nayabazar area of South Keraniganj late on January 21. The following day, the court granted a six-day remand, and last Wed...