Gopalganj unrest: Army urges public to remain patient, says had to use force in self defence
The army says it was compelled to use force in self defence during the violence
The Bangladesh Army has requested public to remain patient and cooperate with law enforcement without being misled by rumours or propaganda regarding yesterday's violence in Gopalganj.
In a press release issued today (17 July), the army said it was compelled to use force in self defence during the violence.
"The general public is urged to remain calm and to continue supporting law enforcement agencies' efforts, avoiding rumours and misinformation," reads the media release.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
It said the Bangladesh Army remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and ensuring public safety.
"Yesterday (16 July), a group of unruly individuals carried out coordinated acts of violence in Gopalganj Sadar Upazila, centering around a public rally organised as part of a political party's July March in the Gopalganj. The unrest began with attacks that injured several police personnel and journalists. Government vehicles and important installations in the city were vandalised and set ablaze," said the release.
NCP leaders leave Gopalganj in army's APC following attack on convoy, clashes between AL, police
It said as the situation escalated, the Bangladesh Army and local police intervened promptly and initially managed to bring the situation under control.
"However, during the same political rally, fresh attacks were launched on the stage and on the district jail, which was severely vandalised. As the army repeatedly appealed for calm through loudspeaker announcements, the attackers responded by hurling numerous crude bombs and bricks at security personnel. At one point, the army was compelled to use force in self defence," said the army press release.
The release stated that under the army's overall supervision, individuals who had taken shelter at the Office of the Superintendent of Police in Gopalganj were safely relocated to Khulna.
Violence in Gopalganj 'utterly indefensible', those responsible will swiftly face justice: Govt
It noted that law enforcement agencies managed to restore order with professionalism and restraint, prioritising public safety throughout.
The army also mentioned that the overall security situation in Gopalganj district remains stable, and the curfew imposed by the administration is in force.
Gopalganj district town witnessed heightened unrest throughout Wednesday, as activists of the banned Awami League, its banned student wing Chhatra League, and other affiliated organisations occupied various points, wielding sticks and hurling brickbats.
So far, the clashes have claimed four lives and left dozens injured, according to hospital and police sources.
Following the attack on NCP's rally and convoy, the party leaders and activists took shelter at Police Superintendent's Office yesterday. Later, the NCP leaders left Gopalganj by the armoured personnel carrier (APC) of the army.
Meanwhile, the government described the violence in Gopalganj as "utterly indefensible" and warned that those responsible would be brought to justice.
