Cops come under attack during anti-rape protest: DMP

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has claimed that an attack on police personnel was carried out from within the anti-rape protest march.

In a press release issued on Tuesday night, DMP Deputy Police Commissioner (Media) Md Talebur Rahman made the statement, UNB reports. 

According to the press release, at around 3:30 PM on Tuesday, a group of 60-70 protesters, including both men and women, attempted to march towards the Chief Advisor’s official residence, Jamuna, under the banner of an anti-rape march. Police intercepted them at the Hotel Intercontinental intersection. Protesters then allegedly used women as shields to break through the police barricade and advance forward.

As police urged them to move away to maintain security in the area and ensure smooth traffic flow, the protesters reportedly turned aggressive, attacking officers with a confrontational stance. Several police personnel were injured by protesters’ scratches, and at one point, they engaged in scuffles with law enforcement. The demonstrators also allegedly launched a surprise attack, throwing bricks and wielding sticks against the police officers on duty.

The press release also stated that Abdulllah Al Mamun, Assistant Commissioner of Ramna Zone, was seriously injured in the attack. Additionally, Deputy Police Commissioner of Ramna Division Md Masud Alam, two female police officers, and three male constables sustained injuries due to the assault. The police later brought the situation under control by dispersing the protesters.

Legal action is currently underway against those involved in the incident, according to the statement.