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The shocking wave of vandalism and looting that swept through various parts of the country on April 7, during pro-Gaza protest rallies, has laid bare the fragility of law and order situation in the country. What were initially intended to be peaceful demonstrations in solidarity with the people of Gaza quickly spiraled into violence, with mobs targeting well-known business outlets such as Bata, KFC, and Domino's Pizza in cities including Sylhet, Chattogram, Khulna, Barishal, and Cumilla. These attacks were allegedly triggered by claims of the companies' associations with Israel --claims that, even if true, cannot justify such brazen acts of destruction and looting.
The coordinated nature of the assaults suggests that they were not spontaneous reactions but rather pre-planned and orchestrated by opportunistic criminal groups with the clear intent to loot. This was not mere protest -- it was an outright assault on law, order, and commerce, carried out with impunity. In response, law enforcement agencies have conducted a series of raids and are analysing surveillance footage to identify those responsible. The government has appealed to the public for assistance in identifying the perpetrators. The Home Adviser has warned of stern actions, claiming that law enforcers will remain vigilant to prevent future occurrences. Such pronouncements feel all too familiar. They echo the same formulaic responses issued after previous incidents of violence and disorder. This time, the assurances ring particularly hollow. Vandalism has become disturbingly common in recent months. While some unrest following the July student uprising may have been anticipated, the persistence of violence long after that movement signals a deeper systemic failure.
What happened on April 7 can only be described as a grave failure of governance-most notably, a failure of intelligence. The inability to foresee or preempt such organised acts of aggression is deeply troubling. Law enforcers were either caught off guard or they were negligent to duties. The incidents also came at a particularly sensitive time -- just a day before a major investment summit intended to position Bangladesh as a promising destination for international investors. Hundreds of foreign delegates were in attendance, and the chaos unfolding across the country could not have sent a worse message. Instead of assuring potential investors of a stable and secure environment, the events offered a stark contrast -- instability, insecurity, and apparent law enforcement inertia.
It is deeply concerning that, despite knowing the heightened tensions surrounding the protests, the authorities failed to take adequate preventive measures. Post-event promises of vigilance ring hollow when the damage has already been done. Empty reassurances will not restore the confidence of businesses or the public. If shop owners and entrepreneurs remain in fear of losing their property to mob violence, verbal commitments will mean little. The government must recognise that the maintenance of law and order is not just a reactive duty but a proactive obligation. It is time to demonstrate with action -- not just words -- that security, stability, and justice are top priorities in every corner of the country.