United News of Bangladesh

A labour leader of the National Citizen Party (NCP) was injured in a gun attack in Khulna city on Monday (December 22, 2025), just days after the shooting of Inquilab Moncho leader Sharif Osman Hadi in Dhaka, which resulted in his death. The injured, identified as Motaleb Shikder, 42, organiser and divisional chief of Jatiya Sramik Shakti, is the son of Muslim Shikder, and a resident of Sheikh Para area in Khulna city. Read more: Journalist shot dead, another injured in Khulna Police said miscreants shot him in the head around 11:45am. Locals rescued him and took him to Khulna Medical College Hospital, according to Sonadanga Police Station officer-in-charge Animesh Mondol. The attack comes 10 days after Osman Hadi was shot in the capital. He later died from his injuries at a Singapore hospital, triggering widespread outrage and demands for quick arrests. Read more: BNP leader shot dead in Pabna

Law enforcement agencies have arrested at least nine people in connection with recent attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo, The Daily Star and two cultural organisations in Dhaka and elsewhere in the country. Seven of the arrestees were identified as Md Kashem Faruk, Md Saidur Rahman, Rakib Hossain, Md Naim, Faisal Ahmed Pranto, Md Sohel Rana and Md Shafiqul Islam, according to a Facebook post by the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing on Monday morning (December 22, 2025). Kashem, a former student of Al-Jamia Al-Islamia Kasemul Uloom Madrasa in Bogura, currently lives in Dhaka’s Mohammadpur area. Saidur hails from Noakanda village in Bhanga upazila of Faridpur district. Rakib Hossain, from Sherpur district, was identified in video footage taking part in vandalism and arson at the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. He also posted images of the wreckage along with provocative messages on Facebook. Read more: Attacks on Daily Star, Prothom Alo a direct assault on democracy: Fakhrul Md Naim, a resident of Kunipara in Tejgaon, was arrested in Chauddagram upazila of Cumilla with Tk 50,000 looted during the attacks. During primary interrogation, he admitted to looting Tk 123,000, part of which he used to purchase a television and a refrigerator from Mohammadpur. The items were later recovered. Sohel Rana, arrested from the Karwan Bazar rail-line area, has 13 cases filed against him, including drug-related charges, at different police stations in Dhaka. Shafiqul Islam, arrested from the same area, has two previous cases related to arson and grenade attacks. Meanwhile, the Counter-Terrorism Unit of the police, along with intelligence agencies, has detained two more individuals whose identities are currently being verified. At a meeting on Sunday, police informed Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus that primary video analysis had identified 31 suspects involved in the incidents. In Chattogram, three people who attempted to create unrest near the residence of the Indian Assistant High Commissioner were also identified from video footage. Efforts are underway to arrest the remaining accused. Read more: 17 arrested over attacks on Prothom Alo, Daily Star offices: DMP

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for calm and urged all concerned in Bangladesh to refrain from violence, reduce tensions and exercise maximum restraint in order to preserve a peaceful electoral environment as the country heads to elections in February. The UN Secretary-General condemned the killing of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi and extended his condolences to his family. The UN Chief called on the authorities to conduct a prompt, impartial investigation, in line with international human rights standards. Amnesty urges accountability over Hadi murder, mob violence "I have been asked about the current situation in Bangladesh, and I can tell you that the Secretary-General condemns the killing of a youth protest leader, Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, and extends his condolences to his family," said Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General, during a regular briefing at the UN Headquarters on December 19.

Two people were shot dead when unidentified gunmen opened fire outside the Khulna District and Sessions Judge Court on Sunday (November 30).  The deceased were identified as Rajon and Hasib of Bagmara in Rupsha upazila of the district.  Shafiqul Islam, officer-in-charge of Sadar Police Station, said the attackers intercepted a motorbike carrying the duo when they were leaving the court premises after attending a hearing around 12:30 pm. Ex-JCD leader killing in B’baria; family files complaint against Swechchhasebak Dal leader At one stage, the attackers opened fire on them and stabbed them indiscriminately, leaving them injured. The gunmen fled the scene immediately after the gun attack, he said.  Later, they were taken to Khulna Medical College and Hospital where the doctors declared them dead. Police have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation.  A tense situation has been prevailing in and around the court premises over the incident. Read more: Dhaka, Khulna among 15 districts that get new DCs

Supporters and opponents of the Awami League-called ‘lockdown’ staged separate demonstrations in Gazipur on Thursday morning (13th November 2025), though daily life remained largely normal despite reduced long-distance bus services. From early morning, students of Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology (DUET) and several other institutions took to the streets with sticks to resist enforcement of the lockdown. They staged protests at Rail Gate and other key points before gathering at Shibbari intersection, chanting slogans against the banned Awami League. Read more: 3 buses set on fire in Gazipur Meanwhile, activists of Islami Andolan Bangladesh brought out motorcycle rallies and processions in several areas before converging at Shibbari. Earlier at dawn, district Jubo League activists demonstrated in favour of the lockdown by burning tyres on the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway in Sreepur’s C&B area. Members of law enforcement agencies were deployed at several points of Gazipur city to prevent any illegal attempt to disrupt daily life. On Tuesday night and early Wednesday, miscreants set fire to three buses at different locations in Gazipur, triggering panic among residents. Read more: Dhaka on high alert amid Awami League's countrywide ‘lockdown’ call

Law enforcement agencies, including police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), are on high alert across key points of Dhaka on Thursday (13th November 2025) as the Awami League (AL) called a countrywide ‘lockdown’. The movement of people and transport, particularly private vehicles, was notably thinner than usual amid growing public anxiety over safety. Businesses and educational institutions remained open, continuing their regular activities. Dr. Mahfuzur Rahman, a resident of Gulshan and a well-known therapist, who travelled to Mirpur 7 by motorcycle for urgent work, told UNB, “The number of passenger vehicles was almost half of what we usually see on a weekday. Only a limited number of CNG auto-rickshaws, private cars, and motorcycles were on the streets. However, the police presence on flyovers has significantly reduced the risk of sabotage. I felt quite safe while travelling.” He added, “It’s clear that fear has kept many people at home today.” The supporters of BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami and allied parties took positions at several points in Dhaka to resist any move by the AL and brought out processions protesting the  ‘lockdown’ programme, called as the International Crime Tribunal-1 ( ICT-1) is set to announce a date today for the delivery of judgment in a case against ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina and others for crimes against humanity, including murders, during last year's July-August mass uprising.  Over the past few days, several incidents of arson and crude bomb blasts were reported in different parts of the country, including Dhaka, intensifying public fears of renewed unrest. To maintain order, the government deployed 12 platoons of BGB in Dhaka and two more in nearby districts. At a press conference on Wednesday, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali said the force was fully prepared to prevent any act of sabotage related to the lockdown. Read more: Tension rises in Dhaka ahead of planned ‘lockdown’ amid fears of violence The tribunal fixed November 13 for fixing a judgment date after both prosecution and defence completed their closing arguments before the three-member panel led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumder. Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh to India on August 5, 2024, amid the mass uprising. A total of 54 witnesses testified in the trial, including relatives of victims—such as the father of martyr Abu Sayed—and key witnesses like Nahid Islam, Convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), and Amar Desh editor Dr Mahmudur Rahman. According to the charges, the then Awami League government, along with party leaders, loyal administrators and members of law enforcement agencies, committed crimes against humanity to suppress the student-led July–August uprising. On July 10, the tribunal indicted Sheikh Hasina, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former IGP Abdullah Al-Mamun, formally beginning the trial. Former IGP Al-Mamun later turned state witness and provided detailed testimony about the incidents. Besides this case, Sheikh Hasina faces two other cases before the International Crimes Tribunal—one over enforced disappearances and killings during the Awami League’s 15 and a half years in power, and another over the 2013 Hefazat-e-Islam rally killings at Dhaka’s Shapla Chattar. Read more: Tensions rise as ICT going to set verdict date in Hasina case

Urging the government to be tougher and active on maintaining law and order, BNP senior leader Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Wednesday (12th November 2025) said no one can obstruct the upcoming election by indulging in violence. “There is no reason to believe that anyone will be able to disrupt the upcoming election through acts of violence or sabotage. The people of Bangladesh are very aware and alert. They are eagerly waiting for the election,” he said. Talking to reporters after European Union (EU) Ambassador to Bangladesh Michael Miller’s meeting with BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam at the party Chairperson’s Gulshan office, Khosru also said election activities are now in full swing across all 300 constituencies of the country with great enthusiasm and participation. “Almost all political parties are now active on the ground, taking part in election-related activities. Campaigns and preparations are progressing smoothly in every area,” he said. EU Ambassador meets Mirza Fakhrul, discusses polls Asked for his comment on recent incidents of political unrest and violence, Khosru, a BNP Standing Committee member, said such issues concern everyone. “Law and order is always a matter of concern. We also have our concerns.” He said they hope the government will ensure that its law enforcement agencies remain strong, vigilant, and effective in addressing any such incidents. Responding to questions about the Awami League’s alleged violent activities and lockdown programme, the BNP leader said, “The Awami League is neither in the race nor active in the country. Their leader is not even present. So, there is nothing to discuss.” He also said they believe anyone, not just the Awami League, can potentially carry out such violent acts. “It is the responsibility of the law enforcement agencies to perform their duties properly to protect the country from such activities.” Govt to be solely responsible if reforms imposed beyond consensus: Fakhrul Khosru said those who are not contesting in the election or are absent from the country, and whose activities have been suspended, may attempt violent acts, and other quarters could also be involved. “But it is the government’s responsibility to deal with them. They have intelligence agencies and law enforcement agencies, and we hope the government will be more active in handling these matters effectively. Through this, we will be able to move forward towards the election.” Speaking about BNP’s nomination list, Khosru said, “After announcing candidates for 237 seats, the list has been widely accepted. Reports from various quarters indicate that the nominations are well received.” Regarding Jamaat’s Amir’s comment that no election will be held next year without the legal recognition of the July Charter, he said, “We have already discussed and reached an agreement. The charter was signed. Beyond that, we are not aware of any remaining issues. After so many discussions and the signing of the charter, it is not clear what else could still be pending.” Read more: Tarique Rahman likely to return home by end of November: Salahuddin

Bangladesh’s capital Dhaka is on the edge ahead of Thursday’s (13th November 2025) planned ‘lockdown’, as reports of arson and crude bomb explosions have heightened public anxiety. Law enforcement agencies, including the police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), have been deployed across the city to prevent potential violence. At a press conference on Wednesday, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Sajjad Ali said the force was fully prepared to avert acts of sabotage associated with the lockdown. “We hope Dhaka residents will stand with us to resist this lockdown and maintain peace,” he said, adding that additional police personnel had been stationed at all city entry and exit points. BGB deployment Fourteen platoons of the BGB have been deployed in Dhaka and surrounding districts since Wednesday morning, according to BGB Public Relations Officer Shariful Islam. Read more: 14 platoons of BGB deployed in Dhaka, adjoining districts Twelve platoons are stationed at key points within the capital, while two are deployed in nearby districts. “BGB members are patrolling strategic areas including Hotel Intercontinental, Dhanmondi-32, Airport, Abdullahpur, Kakrail, Shishu Park, the High Court area, and Abrar Fahad Avenue,” he said. Violence The unrest has already left its mark on the city. On Tuesday night, miscreants set fire to a Malanch Paribahan passenger bus near Sutrapur Fire Station. Crude bomb explosions were also reported in Hatirjheel, Karwan Bazar and other parts of Dhaka. Another bus set on fire in Dhaka’s Sutrapur An official from the Fire Service and Civil Defence told UNB, “At least five arson incidents have been reported in the capital in the past 24 hours. However, no casualties were reported.” Political Backdrop The planned ‘lockdown’ follows an announcement by the Awami League ahead of a verdict by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and others in a case involving crimes against humanity. Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh to India on 5 August 2024, and political instability has since deepened. Read more: Security tightened countrywide ahead of Nov 13 ‘lockdown’: Home Adviser Public Anxiety Despite repeated assurances from law enforcement agencies, fear remains palpable among residents. “We’re scared because buses may not run tomorrow. We’ve already heard about fires breaking out in some areas over the past several nights,” said a passenger at Gabtoli Bus Terminal. Police Warning & Advice The DMP Commissioner warned of strict action against anyone involved in violence or vandalism. “No one will be allowed to take the law into their own hands,” he said, urging residents to remain vigilant.

Miscreants set fire to three buses at different locations in Gazipur on Tuesday night (11th November 2025) and early Wednesday (12th November 2025), triggering panic among people. However, no casualties have so far been reported, according to fire service officials. The first incident occurred at dawn (Wednesday) when a group of unidentified people torched a bus parked on Dhaka–Tangail highway near Peyarabagan area of Bhogra Bypass. Being informed, firefighters from the Bhogra Modern Fire Service rushed to the spot and doused the flames. Bus torched after running over teenager in Sirajganj Around the same time, another group set fire to a minibus in the Beraid Chala area of Sreepur upazila of the district.  Fire service personnel from Sreepur Fire Service Station responded and managed to bring the fire under control. In a separate incident around 10pm on Tuesday, miscreants set a minibus ablaze at Chakrabarti along the Kaliakoir–Nabinagar highway, partially burning its seats. Mohammad Mamun, deputy assistant director of Gazipur Fire Service, said the Peyarabagan fire caused an estimated Tk 20 lakh in damages, while the Sreepur incident led to losses worth about Tk 10 lakh. Read more: 14 platoons of BGB deployed in Dhaka, adjoining districts

The government has deployed 14 platoons of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) in Dhaka and adjoining districts to maintain law and order amid incidents of vehicle torching by miscreants. Shariful Islam, Public Relations Officer at the BGB headquarters, said on Wednesday morning (12th November 2025) that 12 platoons have been stationed in Dhaka, while the remaining two have been deployed in nearby districts of the capital. The paramilitary force has been positioned at key locations including Hotel Intercontinental, Dhanmondi-32, Airport, Abdullahpur, Kakrail, Shishu Academy, the High Court area, and Abrar Fahad Avenue. 3 buses set on fire in Gazipur Miscreants set fire to buses in Dhaka, Gazipur and other districts to create panic among the public, as the Awami League announced a ‘lockdown’ for November 13 ahead of the verdict dae to be set by the International Crimes Tribunal against Sheikh Hasina and others in a case involving crimes against humanity.