"The government of Bangladesh has made significant progress in investigating the bomb attack of January 2005 that killed Kibria," a press statement from the Bangladesh embassy in Washington said, adding, "Eight people have been arrested as suspects of the case."

The statement, issued on Tuesday after a letter sent by some US Senators and Congressmen to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on the issue, said the foreign agencies, including FBI, are working with the law enforcement agencies of the government to ensure efficient, transparent and comprehensive investigation. It said the FBI agents are being accorded full access to witnesses and evidence.

Bangladesh has also urged all not to act in any manner that can pre-judge the outcome of the ongoing investigation.

It has requested all to wait for the results of the protracted investigation process to ensure that all perpetrators of this heinous crime can be brought to justice.

"The government is aware of the strong emotional aspect of the case that not only touches the members of the family of Kibria but also appeals to the minds of all peace-loving people of Bangladesh and beyond," it said.

The statement reminded that determination and sincerity of Bangladesh government in unearthing the case have been duly appreciated by the US administration and a number of Senators and Congressmen.

A letter addressed jointly to the secretary of state by four US Senators and eight Congressmen most of whom represent Massachusetts, the home state of Kibria's daughter Nazli Kibria, also appreciated the actions taken by the government to investigate and prosecute the killing of Kibria.

"We recognise and appreciate that the government of Bangladesh has arrested eight individuals and is seeking justice in the Kibria assassination case," the embassy quoted the letter as saying.

The letter also mentioned that 22 people were sentenced to death by the court in Ahsanullah Master MP murder case and added that his family members have also expressed full satisfaction with the verdict.