Local journalist leaders have strongly condemned and protested a gun attack targeting a group of journalists in Khulna city, demanding the immediate arrest and exemplary punishment of those responsible.

The incident took place around 12:30am on Wednesday in front of a tea stall on the western side of the United Nations Shishu Park in the city.

Witnesses said several journalists were gossiping at the spot after finishing their office work when two youths arrived on a motorcycle and opened fire at them. The bullet missed its intended target and struck the leg of a chair.

Rakibul Islam Moti, Khulna correspondent of SA TV and a permanent member of the press club, said six journalists were at the tea stall when the attackers suddenly fired at them.

On information, police visited the spot.

Syed Rana Kabir, senior staff reporter of the Daily Khulnanchal, said a sprinter hit Awal Sheikh, Khulna Bureau chief of The Business Standard and a press club member, in the chest, causing minor injuries. He is now out of danger.

Those present during the attack also included former Member Secretary of the Khulna Press Club and Khulna Bureau Chief of Star News Rafiul Islam Tutul.

In separate statements, leaders of the Khulna Press Club, Khulna Metropolitan Journalists’ Association and Khulna District Journalists’ Association demanded a fair and impartial investigation to identify those involved in the attack and bring them to justice.

They also urged the authorities to ensure a safe and secure environment for journalists to carry out their professional duties without fear.

Officer-in-Charge of Khulna Sadar Police Station Md Shafiqul Islam said police recovered parts of a bullet from the scene.

He said police were investigating the motive behind the shooting.