Fresh violence has erupted across several cities in Bangladesh, triggering serious security concerns. Protests and clashes were reported in Dhaka and other major urban centres following the death of Islamist leader Sharif Usman Hadi.
Hadi died during treatment at a hospital in Singapore after being shot in the head. The attack took place a day after the Election Commission announced national poll dates. His death sparked widespread unrest.
Radical groups carried out arson, vandalism, and attacks in cities including Dhaka, Rajshahi, Sylhet, Mymensingh, and Chattogram. In Mymensingh district, a Hindu youth was reportedly beaten to death. His body was later hung from a tree and set on fire. In Dhaka, open threats were issued against the Hindu community, accompanied by jihadist slogans.
Security agencies also intervened after reports emerged of journalists being attacked. In some incidents, mobs allegedly tried to set media personnel on fire while they were covering the violence.
Several accused individuals have been arrested in connection with Hadi’s death. Investigators identified some of them as active human traffickers operating near border areas.
Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus confirmed Hadi’s death in a national address. He called it an irreparable loss and promised swift action against those responsible. The government declared a day of state mourning on December 20.
The violence has raised fears ahead of the general elections scheduled for February 12 next year.
