Bangladesh Army has issued a statement on the recent violence in Gopalganj, calling for public patience and cooperation in restoring order following the July 16 political rally by a political party that spiraled into widespread unrest.
According to the statement released on Thursday (July 17), a section of unruly individuals carried out coordinated attacks in Gopalganj Sadar upazila during the rally, injuring several police officers and journalists. Important public infrastructure and government vehicles were also vandalised and set on fire.
In response to the deteriorating situation, the army, along with local police, intervened swiftly to bring the violence under control. However, the unrest intensified as another attack was carried out on the rally stage and later on the district jail, resulting in significant damage.
The army stated that they repeatedly used loudspeakers to warn the attackers to stand down, but came under heavy assault involving crude bombs and brickbats. This forced security forces to act in self-defence. Eventually, a joint operation involving the army, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and police dispersed the attackers.
Following the operation, individuals who had taken shelter at the Gopalganj police superintendent’s office were safely relocated to Khulna under army supervision. The statement noted that the law enforcement agencies acted with professionalism and restraint to ensure public safety and restore order.
As of now, the overall security situation in Gopalganj has stabilised, though a government-imposed curfew remains in effect. The army, BGB, police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and other relevant authorities are working in close coordination across the district.
The army acknowledged the patience and support shown by the people of Gopalganj during the crisis and urged citizens not to be misled by rumours or misinformation. They also appealed for continued cooperation with security forces.
The statement concluded by reiterating the Bangladesh Army’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and ensuring public security.
MSK/
