DHAKA, Bangladesh — A confrontation in southern Bangladesh escalated on Monday when residents attacked an air force base, leading to military personnel discharging their weapons. Reports indicate that at least one individual was killed in the incident, while several more sustained injuries.
According to statements from military officials, they attributed the attack on the base in Cox’s Bazar to “miscreants.” Local media, including the widely read Daily Star, confirmed the fatality from the clash. The situation reportedly began when soldiers confronted a motorcyclist for riding without a helmet, as reported by the Bengali-language newspaper Prothom Alo.
Following this, the military revealed that a local individual was taken into custody inside the base for lacking proper documentation related to his motorcycle. Approximately 200 individuals from the neighboring area of Samitipara reportedly advanced toward the base, prompting personnel to block their access. This led to a physical confrontation, which included stone-throwing between the two groups.
The military clarified that multiple personnel sustained injuries during the altercation and stated that although they discharged rounds, they were blanks rather than live ammunition aimed at the crowd.
The broader context in Bangladesh involves an interim government under the leadership of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, which has been grappling with unrest following the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August. The political climate has resulted in concerns regarding mob justice surfacing in various areas.
In response to escalating tensions, the interim government initiated a crackdown known as “Operation Devil Hunt” on February 8, leading to the arrest of over 8,000 individuals throughout the nation. The Awami League party, previously led by Hasina, has alleged that this crackdown is primarily targeting its supporters.
