Dhaka police arrest 11 activists for alleged sabotage during protests

The Detective Branch of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police has arrested 11 leaders and activists from the banned Awami League, Jubo League, and Chhatra League in Mirpur. Authorities allege the individuals infiltrated ongoing garment workers’ protests to incite violence and carry out arson attacks.

The protests, which involve workers demanding higher minimum monthly wages, escalated on Saturday and Sunday, resulting in clashes with police and the burning of a police vehicle. Investigators identified Alif Mollah, the nephew of fugitive Member of Parliament Ilias Mollah, as a key coordinator. Police claim Mollah brought activists from various districts, including Barishal and Cox’s Bazar, to Dhaka to stage the violence. Operations continue to identify and apprehend approximately 100 other suspected participants.