A total of 72 individuals were arrested in Bangladesh following violent protests that erupted in various cities in response to Israeli military actions in Gaza. The protests, which began on April 7 as part of the Global Strike for Gaza, quickly turned violent, with mobs attacking businesses accused of having ties to Israel. Shafiqul Alam, the chief advisor's press secretary, made the announcement in a statement on Wednesday.
Protesters vandalized and looted shops, including outlets of Bata shoes and popular fast food chains such as KFC and Domino's Pizza. Cities like Sylhet, Chattogram, Khulna, Barishal, and Cumilla were among the hardest hit by the unrest.
The arrests were made between April 7 and April 9, with the largest number of arrests taking place in Khulna (33) and Sylhet (19). Smaller numbers were detained in Chattogram, Gazipur, Narayanganj, Cumilla, and Cox's Bazar. As of now, nine cases have been filed in connection to the disturbances, though the Chief Adviser's office has reported that 10 cases are officially underway.
Authorities have vowed to continue investigating the incidents, with additional cases expected as the situation develops. The government is working to hold those responsible accountable for the violence, emphasizing that such acts of vandalism will not be tolerated.
The protests in Bangladesh highlight growing global divisions over the Gaza conflict, with many rallying in support of Palestine while condemning Israeli actions.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
