Bangladesh Detains 49 Protestors for Vandalism during Pro-Palestine Demonstrations
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Synopsis
On April 8, 49 individuals were arrested in Bangladesh for vandalizing shops during pro-Palestine protests, targeting Israeli-linked businesses. The police are actively seeking additional suspects by analyzing footage from the events. Security around diplomatic areas in Dhaka has also been heightened following the unrest as citizens are advised to exercise caution.
Key Takeaways
- 49 individuals arrested for vandalism.
- Protests targeted businesses linked to Israel.
- Police are reviewing footage for further suspects.
- Security heightened around embassies in Dhaka.
- US citizens advised to remain vigilant during demonstrations.
Dhaka, April 8 (NationPress) The Chief Advisor’s Office (CAO) of Bangladesh reported on Tuesday that 49 individuals have been arrested for their involvement in the vandalization of shops and businesses in Sylhet and other cities nationwide during a pro-Palestine demonstration led by students and the public.
The protests specifically targeted establishments associated with Israel, including Bata, KFC, and Pizza Hut in places like Bogra, Sylhet, and Cox’s Bazar, in response to the Israeli attacks on Gaza, with demands for a boycott of certain products, according to local media.
“In a decisive move to hold those responsible accountable, police executed raids last night aimed at apprehending the offenders. Furthermore, our law enforcement agencies are meticulously analyzing video evidence from the protests to identify additional participants. These efforts will persist until all individuals responsible for this violence and destruction are arrested,” stated the interim government.
Several clips that circulated widely on social media on Monday depicted protestors vandalizing shops and businesses throughout Bangladesh, fueled by accusations of “stocking and selling Israeli products.” This included numerous restaurants and retail outlets.
Security protocols were also heightened in the diplomatic zone of Dhaka on Monday evening, especially around the US embassy, following a wave of pro-Palestine protests in the vicinity. Personnel from various security agencies, including the Border Guard Bangladesh, Armed Police Battalion, Special Branch, and the Bangladesh army, were deployed to ensure safety in this sensitive area.
Additionally, security was intensified at other embassies within the Gulshan area. Bangladesh’s prominent daily, Prothom Alo, reported that the Assistant Commissioner of Police for Gulshan, Ali Ahmed Masud, confirmed that security in the diplomatic enclave has been reinforced in light of protests advocating for an end to the conflict in Gaza.
The US embassy in Dhaka issued a security alert a day prior, advising its citizens to remain vigilant, as demonstrations intended to be peaceful may escalate into confrontations and violence. Citizens were encouraged to avoid protests and stay cautious near large gatherings, while also reviewing personal security plans and staying informed about local events through news outlets.
