Protesters attack Indian assistant high commissioner's residence in Chattogram
Twelve people, including the alleged leader, were arrested, and a case under the Speedy Trial Act will be filed against them
A group of enraged protesters attacked the residence of India's assistant high commissioner in Chattogram in the early hours of today (19 December).
They gathered in front the residence and threw brickbats, according to police sources.
Later, law enforcement fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowd. Members of the Bangladesh Army were also deployed to the scene as tensions escalated.
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Talking to reporters afterwards, Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) Commissioner Hasib Aziz said that a large crowd had gathered in front of the Indian Assistant High Commissioner's residence and office near MES College today.
Around a thousand people were present initially, and CMP DC North spoke to them before dispersing the crowd, he said.
"Later, a smaller group of 50-60 people, reportedly from a nearby slum and considered violent, threw bricks towards the office. Some bricks crossed the main gate, causing minor injuries to CMP personnel, including one who hurt his leg. There was no material damage, and high commission officials were not affected," he added.
"CMP officials used a stun grenade and tear gas to disperse the smaller group. Twelve people, including the alleged leader, were arrested, and a case under the Speedy Trial Act will be filed against them," said the CMP chief.
Bangladesh Army personnel have been deployed in front of the residence as part of heightened security measures. The commissioner said extra security will remain in place as long as needed, noting that tensions remain high.
Widespread protests erupted across Dhaka and multiple districts on late Thursday night, continuing into the wee hours of today, after the news of Inqilab Mancha leader Sharif Osman Hadi's death spread and enraged the student-people.
