Fresh Violence Shakes Bangladesh As Man Killed In Petrol Bomb Attack On Christmas Eve

Fresh violence erupted in Dhaka on Christmas Eve when a powerful crude bomb explosion killed a young man in a busy central area. The incident occurred near the Bangladesh Muktijoddha Sangsad Central Command at the Moghbazar intersection. According to police, the attack took place in the evening, creating panic among commuters. The blast shattered the calm of the festive evening. Security forces rushed to the spot within minutes. The area was soon sealed off. The killing has heightened fears of renewed unrest.

How Was The Attack Carried Out?

Police officials said unidentified assailants hurled a crude bomb from the Moghbazar flyover at around 7:10 pm. The improvised explosive device landed on the road below. Investigators believe the bomb struck the victim directly on the head. The impact was fatal and instantaneous. The device is suspected to be a Molotov-style cocktail bomb. The attack appeared targeted but indiscriminate in execution. Authorities are examining CCTV footage from nearby locations.

Who Was The Victim?

The victim was identified as Saiful Siam, a 21-year-old resident of the area. He was employed at Zahid Car Decoration, an automobile accessories shop in Moghbazar. Police said Siam had stepped out briefly to buy snacks. Moments later, the explosion occurred. His death shocked local residents and shopkeepers. He was declared dead on the spot. The incident has left the neighborhood in grief.

What Did Eyewitnesses See?

A nearby tea-stall owner described the scene as horrifying. He said Siam had just come to his stall for tea. Suddenly, there was a loud explosion. Siam collapsed immediately after the blast. Blood was visible, and the injuries were severe. Panic spread across the area within seconds. People ran for cover. The eyewitness account underlined the brutality of the attack.

What Are Police Saying?

Senior officials from Bangladesh Police confirmed the use of a powerful cocktail bomb. Ramna Division Deputy Police Commissioner Masud Alam said the youth died instantly after being hit. He added that senior officers were supervising the investigation. Forensic teams have collected samples from the site. The motive behind the attack remains unclear. Police have assured strict action against those responsible.

Why Is The Timing Sensitive?

The attack comes just ahead of the expected visit of exiled Bangladesh Nationalist Party leader Tarique Rahman. Political tensions in the country have been rising in recent weeks. Security agencies are on high alert. Analysts believe the timing could be intended to create fear and instability. Authorities have not officially linked the attack to politics. However, the context has drawn attention nationwide.

What Happens Next?

Law enforcement agencies have cordoned off the Moghbazar area. Efforts are underway to identify the attackers and trace their escape route. Additional security has been deployed at sensitive locations in the capital. The government is expected to review safety measures. The incident has once again raised questions about public security. For Dhaka, Christmas Eve ended not in celebration, but in shock and sorrow.