Bangladesh: Awami League Workers Angered By News Of Sheikh Hasina's Return; Beat Up Policemen

Dhaka: A case of violence has come to light in Pabna district amid speculation about the possible return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to Bangladesh. Violent clash broke out between police and local people in Pabna district on Thursday morning. Police claim that the leaders and workers of the banned Awami League gathered people by making announcements through the loudspeakers of mosques and then attacked policemen. During this, Sujanagar police station in-charge (OC) and a constable were injured. Two police vehicles were also vandalized and the detained people were freed. However, local Awami League president Abdul Wahab has denied these allegations and said that he was not present in the area at the time of the incident.

What did the perpetrators plan?

According to Sujanagar police station, two police patrol teams had raided Mathurapur area after receiving information. Police claim that leaders and workers of the banned Awami League were planning sabotage during the Football World Cup match. Many people were detained during the raid. After this, the police allege that people were called by making an announcement through the loudspeaker of the mosque and the police team was attacked. During this, two police vehicles were vandalized and the detained people were freed. Police station in-charge Muzaffar Hussain and constable Sabuj Hussain were injured in the incident, who were given first aid in the local private hospital.

Did Awami League's Abdul Wahab deny the allegations?

Police have alleged that Sujanagar Upazila Awami League President Abdul Wahab was also present at the spot during this attack. However, Abdul Wahab completely rejected this claim. He said that due to fear of arrest, he is living outside the district and cannot even go to the area due to fear of police. According to him, the youth of the village had organized a program to eat khichdi after watching the football match at night. Police reached there and took 10 to 12 people into custody. Later, on receiving the news, local people, including women, came out of their homes and rescued those detained.

Was case registered under anti-terrorism law?

Pabna Superintendent of Police Sufi Ullah said that in this incident separate cases are being registered under relevant sections of attack on police and anti-terrorism law. He said that both the injured policemen are undergoing treatment. Also, the process of identifying the people involved in the incident and taking legal action against them is going on. Police say that the entire matter is being investigated and further action will be taken after identifying the people involved in the attack.