A nationwide manhunt is underway for 25-year-old Habibur Masum, the prime suspect in the murder of 27-year-old Kulsuma Akter in Bradford. The fatal incident occurred in the city centre, with Akter being attacked while pushing a pram. Masum, who was already known to the police and had been facing trial for threatening to kill Akter, had been released on bail with strict orders not to contact her. Despite this, the tragic event unfolded, leading to Akter’s death.

The search for Masum has seen raids conducted in several locations, including Oldham—where both the victim and suspect originally hail from—Burnley, and Chester. Masum is described as slim, last seen wearing a distinctive grey, white, and black duffle coat, light blue or grey tracksuit bottoms, and maroon trainers. Authorities encourage anyone with information about Masum’s whereabouts to contact them immediately.

Both West Yorkshire Police and Greater Manchester Police have referred themselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) regarding their previous dealings with Masum and Akter. The community has been left in shock over the event, with one local shopkeeper remembering Akter as a “good, charitable lady.”

Masum, a Bangladeshi national in the UK on a student visa, had been active on social media, portraying a seemingly normal life. He had attended the University of Bedfordshire for a master’s degree in marketing and is known to have connections in Burnley, Oldham, and Chester. Despite his online presence suggesting normalcy, authorities urge the public not to approach him if seen but to immediately report any sightings.

As the manhunt continues, a 23-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. The city of Bradford remains on high alert, with increased police patrols and an ongoing appeal for information to secure Masum’s arrest and ensure justice for Kulsuma Akter.