Dhaka faces surge in vandalism and looting incidents

A series of violent incidents involving vandalism, looting, and property occupation has occurred across Dhaka over a 48-hour period, raising significant concerns regarding law and order in Bangladesh.

In Mirpur-1, attackers used an excavator to demolish and loot the Radda MCH-FP Centre, a medical facility serving low-income mothers and children. In Mohammadpur, several hundred people ransacked an office in Chand Udyan Housing, while armed groups targeted a house in Adabor. Additionally, a studio belonging to content creator Salman Muqtadir near ECB Chattar was attacked by large crowds, resulting in significant property damage and theft.

Reports indicate that some attacks involved gunfire and the use of pickup vans to transport looted goods. Critics have pointed to police inaction, noting instances where officers were present during vandalism or arrived hours after emergency calls. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed acknowledged these failures and announced disciplinary actions against police officials. Transparency International Bangladesh described the events as “warning signs for the government” amid ongoing allegations of extortion and occupation since the 2024 mass uprising.