Army urges public to remain patient, cooperate with law enforcers

The Bangladesh Army has requested public to remain patient and cooperate with law enforcement without being misled by rumours or propaganda regarding yesterday's violence in Gopalganj.

In a press release issued on Thursday (17 July), the army said it was compelled to use force in self defence during the violence.

“The general public has been urged to remain calm and to continue supporting law enforcement agencies' efforts, avoiding rumours and misinformation,” reads the media release.

It said the Bangladesh Army remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and ensuring public safety.

"Yesterday (16 July), a group of unruly individuals carried out coordinated acts of violence in Gopalganj Sadar Upazila, centering around a public rally organised as part of a political party's July March in the Gopalganj. The unrest began with attacks that injured several police personnel and journalists. Government vehicles and important installations in the city were vandalised and set ablaze," said the release.

It said as the situation escalated, the Bangladesh Army and local police intervened promptly and initially managed to bring the situation under control.

"However, during the same political rally, fresh attacks were launched on the stage and on the district jail, which was severely vandalised. As the army repeatedly appealed for calm through loudspeaker announcements, the attackers responded by hurling numerous crude bombs and bricks at security personnel. At one point, the army was compelled to use force in self defence," said the army press release.

The release stated that under the army's overall supervision, individuals who had taken shelter at the Office of the Superintendent of Police in Gopalganj were safely relocated to Khulna.