DHAKA, Dec 24: A young man was killed on Wednesday evening after a bomb was hurled from a flyover into a crowded area of central Dhaka, in an attack that spread panic in a city which has witnessed mob violence and political killings in the recent past.
The attack comes a day ahead of the arrival of BNP leader Tarique Rahman from exile in London to Dhaka. A massive rally has been planned by the Bangladesh nationalist party to welcome Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.
Police sources said that at least one person, identified by relatives as Siam, had died in the attack.The bomb was thrown near the Freedom Fighters’ Memorial, according to eyewitness accounts.
The bomb detonated on impact, leaving Siam critically injured and bleeding heavily. He died shortly afterward at the scene. Political observers said that the bomb blast could lead to anxieties and reduce attendance at BNP’s planned rally.
Witnesses said the explosion occurred early evening, a time when the area is typically bustling with pedestrians and traffic. Moments after the blast, chaos erupted as people ran for cover, fearing further attacks.
Police officers from the Dhaka Metropolitan Police quickly cordoned off the area and began an investigation. The attackers, witnesses said, fled immediately after throwing the bomb.
“The motive behind the bombing is not yet clear,” police officials said. “We are investigating all possible angles.”
The incident has once again unsettled residents of Dhaka, where sporadic acts of violence in public spaces have heightened anxieties, even as the authorities insist that security measures remain in place. UNI XC JRC
Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, commenting on the controversial decision by the interim govt to ban the Awami League from contesting in the upcoming polls in Bangladesh said on Wednesday, the ban would remain in place.
“Regarding the Awami League, our position is clear,” he said, adding that AL activities and its registration as a political party are suspended indefinitely, and it won’t be allowed to contest in the Feb, 12 polls, Alam told reporters today at the Foreign Service Academy.
The press secretary’s remarks came post a letter issued to Chief Advisor Md Yunus from five US lawmakers on Dec 23, urging him to ensure “inclusive, free and fair elections,” expressing concern over the credibility of national elections when all political factions are not allowed to participate. (UNI)
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