Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed today (Saturday) vowed exemplary punishment for those responsible for the recent attacks on leading newspapers Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, directing the Detective Branch (DB) of police to submit charge-sheets within two months following a fair investigation.

Speaking to journalists after inspecting the burned-out office of Prothom Alo at Kawran Bazar of the capital, which was set ablaze as a planned and coordinated attack, the minister said the incidents had tarnished Bangladesh's image globally.

"With the attacks, a message went to the world that fanatic forces were in a strong position in Bangladesh and could attack any media outlet. Our image was tarnished, and we were ashamed," he said.

"By ensuring exemplary punishment, we want to send an opposite message to the world that militant and fanatic forces cannot hold back the progress of Bangladesh," he also said.

Salahuddin said the Detective Branch is currently investigating the incidents and has been instructed to complete a fair probe before submitting the charge-sheets within two months.

"Our duty is to ensure a fair investigation, while the judiciary will carry out the trial process in the cases linked to the attacks," he added.

The Home Minister, who is also a standing committee member of the ruling BNP, sought cooperation from the public to ensure justice and prevent the recurrence of such heinous acts.

He noted that with the attacks the militant and fanatic forces might attempt to obstruct the country's development, history shows that no such force can halt Bangladesh's progress.

Later, the minister visited the torched office of The Daily Star at Kawran Bazar in the capital.

Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman and Prime Minister's Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman, among others, were present during the visits.