Iqbal Hossain, Ayesha's father, said his daughter and Nusrat were playing by the roadside when the wall collapsed. Neighbors helped rescue the children and rushed them to the hospital. Ayesha's family lives in the Yafedi area under Barura police station in Comilla district. Nusrat, daughter of Sharif Mia, lived with her family at House No. 8 in Lane No. 10, eastern Badda. Inspector Mohammad Faruk, officer in charge of the police camp at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, confirmed that the bodies have been kept at the hospital morgue. He said the incident has been reported to the relevant police station for further investigation.

These allegations were presented on Monday (December 23) at 11:00 AM during a press conference held at the Sagar-Runi Auditorium of the Dhaka Reporters’ Unity by Md. Shakhawat Hossain, Managing Director of Dhaka Pacific Limited.

Md. Shakhawat Hossain stated that, according to the Dhaka South City Corporation memorandum number 46.207.000.13.02.6971, 2023/727 (dated November 19, 2025), Dhaka Pacific Limited legally secured the lease of the nighttime wholesale poultry market in Kaptan Bazar, under Wari Police Station, for one year through a tender process. However, from the beginning of their tenure, a coordinated group of criminals has been illegally occupying the market and obstructing lease operations.

He alleged that on the night of November 23, around 11:30 PM, while attempting to assume responsibility in the presence of Executive Magistrate Aminul Islam of Dhaka South City Corporation, a group of 70–80 criminals led by Emdad Patwari, Nurul Islam, and Jumon forcibly closed the market. During the lease takeover, the group threatened to kill and dispose of the bodies of those who tried to collect rent. The following day, similar terrorist activities were carried out by closing the market again.

Md. Shakhawat Hossain further claimed that on the night of November 25, while attempting to collect lease payments, the criminals demanded a daily extortion of BDT 600,000 and a one-time payment of BDT 5,000,000. They also took control of nearly 200 shops in the market, imposing illegal conditions for revenue collection. Refusal to comply led to threats of being burned alive.

He said that between November 26 and December 10, lease collection was only possible from 70–80 shops, excluding over 200 shops under criminal control. During this period, multiple armed attacks caused serious injuries to the company’s officers and employees.

On December 7, in the early morning, while city corporation cleaners were present, employee Mizanur Rahman Billal was held at gunpoint and BDT 120,000 was seized. Later, on December 12, a more severe attack left Shahjahan and at least 10 others seriously injured and hospitalized.

Although complaints were filed with Wari Police Station, no cases have been registered as FIRs, and no arrests have been made. Expressing frustration at administrative inaction, the press conference demanded the immediate arrest of the criminals and extortionists, ensuring employee safety, and unhindered continuation of legal lease operations. They also called for exemplary punishment for the perpetrators.

In this connection, the company’s Managing Director, Md Shakhawat Hossain, filed a First Information Report (FIR) with Wari Police Station on 13 December 2025, which has been registered as Case No. 1472. The FIR details a series of incidents that allegedly took place after the company received its lease work order.

According to the FIR, Dhaka Pacific Ltd. received the official lease order effective from 19 November 2025. When company representatives went to formally take possession of the market on 23 November at around 11:00pm, in the presence of a DSCC executive magistrate, they found the market illegally locked and occupied by 70–80 armed individuals. The group reportedly blocked entry and openly threatened to kill the leaseholders if they attempted to enter. A similar obstruction occurred again on the night of 24 November, preventing any lease revenue collection.

The FIR further states that on the night of 6 December, while lease payments were being collected from the western section near the City Corporation attendance office, 20–30 armed men allegedly led by Emdad Hossain Patwari launched a planned attack. During the assault, employee Mizanur Rahman Billal was severely beaten, a pistol was held to his head, and Tk 1,20,000 was forcibly taken. Another staff member was also robbed of a gold chain, wristwatch and wallet.

The most violent incident allegedly took place at around 3:00am on 11 December during lease revenue collection. According to the FIR, one employee was held at gunpoint and struck on the head with a machete, while others were brutally beaten with iron rods, hockey sticks and GI pipes. Another employee sustained serious machete injuries to the head and neck, and a gunshot reportedly passed narrowly by another staff member. Five people were seriously injured, two of whom are currently in critical condition at Dhaka Medical College Hospital. During the attack, the assailants allegedly looted more than Tk 1.70 lakh in lease revenue along with gold ornaments.

The FIR also alleges that from 26 November to 10 December, the criminal group illegally occupied more than 200 of the market’s 300 shops, severely disrupting lease revenue collection. The group allegedly demanded Tk 5 lakh per day in extortion and threatened to kill the leaseholders if they entered the market without paying.

In the FIR, the complainant sought immediate legal action against those involved, eviction of illegal occupiers, and the deployment of permanent security measures at Kaptan Bazar. Police sources confirmed that Wari Police Station has accepted the FIR and initiated an investigation into the matter.

Bringing together more than 150 participants—including women supervisors, factory officials, private sector actors, advisory service providers, and development partners,—the event highlighted the importance of empowering women across all levels of the RMG workforce.

In her welcome remarks, Farzana Amin, Team Leader of the PROGRESS project mentioned thatapart from being the biggest export-oriented industry, historically RMG sector hasalso been a space where women walked in, earned their own wages, and rearranged the power dynamics inside their homes and communities. However, women are yet to gain sufficient space in major decision-making roles within larger organisations. “We aim to design a programme that will enable young female professionals to progress from mid-level roles to senior leadership positions,” she said.

In a presentation, T M Abu Saleh, Manager- Programme of PROGRESS project stressedthat “future of this sector must be competitive and resilient. But above all, it must be shared equally by the women who built it. The segment “Voices from the Factory Floor”featured inspiring testimonies from women who have progressed into leadership roles, showcasing both their challenges and successes. In a panel discussion, experts from industry and academiaemphasized the need for gender-responsive HR practices, a cultural shift in mindset, mentorship opportunities, safer, more supportive workplaces, to enablewomen’s leadership.

Panelist VidiyaAmrit Khan, Vice President of BGMEA, shared insights from her own experience, stating:“At one point, a significant part of my management team consisted of women. However, we faced challenges in sustaining this because many young women leave their jobs after marriage. This reflects a broader socio-cultural issue in our industry, and it has reinforced our commitment to creating policies and support systems that enable women to continue thriving in their careers.”

The event also featured a drama performance illustrating women’s barriers and breakthroughs, along with an exhibition on gender-focused interventions. In his closing remarks, Ikramul H. Sohel, Senior Programme Officerat the Embassy of Sweden,statedthat currently only a limited number of women hold leadership roles in the RMG sector, and mentioned that the Embassy intends to increase this through its support to projects like PROGRESS and Aporajita.

During her tenure as the Officer-in-Charge at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, she fulfilled her responsibilities with exceptional dedication, honesty, and efficiency, setting a commendable example. Her strong leadership—directing subordinates effectively, inspiring them, and managing both superiors and juniors in an organized way—was exemplary. Even in moments of extreme pressure, she demonstrated the ability to make quick, logical, and accurate decisions.

She understood public grievances, approached them with empathy, and treated everyone with respect. Discipline, commitment to duty, punctuality, adherence to rules, and flawless execution of responsibilities were among her defining qualities. She skillfully analyzed complex situations and found effective solutions. Maintaining a corruption-free office and upholding law and order with firmness made her an exceptional police officer.

Her Notable Contributions and Achievements (24 December 2024 – 7 December 2025)

During her tenure as Officer-in-Charge, she carried out the following operations and initiatives under the instructions of higher authorities: In the snatching-prone Kawla area, she coordinated with Civil Aviation, submitted the required applications, and facilitated the construction of a boundary wall around the Kawla graveyard to curb criminal activity. With the support of FDEE Expressway authorities, she ensured proper lighting in vulnerable zones. To strengthen law-and-order control, she sent formal proposals for installing 50 CCTV cameras at key points in the police station area. The installation work is now at the final stage. With support from locals and necessary approval from Civil Aviation, she set up a guard room in the Kawla–Bonorupa area for enhanced security.

A total of 1,704 criminals, including snatchers involved in various offenses, were arrested and brought under legal action. Evicted illegal hawkers from Uttara Sector-1, ensuring smooth pedestrian movement for residents.Took effective measures to stop the nuisance caused by unauthorized easy-bike operations.Conducted operations in several hotels to prevent immoral activities.Deployed additional forces along with regular duty teams to stop harassment by hijra groups in the area.Took legal action against individuals engaged in begging within the highly sensitive Key Point Installation (KPI) area of the airport. Deployed plainclothes teams to prevent rallies, gatherings, and marches by banned organizations. Many members of such groups were arrested at different times to ensure no sabotage or subversive activities took place in the critical area.

Individuals involved in deceiving outbound international passengers were arrested from the airport area.Organized regular “entry crime meetings” to raise public awareness on drugs, eve-teasing, dowry, violence against women, and human trafficking.Held monthly coordination meetings with people from various professions.During the cargo village fire incident on 18 October 2025, she swiftly deployed officers and ensured the security of the KPI zone.Solved several clue-less kidnapping cases, rescued victims, and arrested the culprits.Arrested eight professional robbers involved in highway robbery and recovered multiple vehicles used in the crime. Recovered fake currency worth 6,32,82,000 BDT, 2.5 kg of gold, 14.150 kg of cannabis, and yaba and heroin in separate operations.

In summary, such an honest, neutral, and hardworking police officer—who is willing to risk her life for the nation—can truly propel the country forward through dedication and integrity. The people of the Airport area still pray for her well-being.

This camp has been organized with the aim of ensuring that low-income and middle-class people can get free medical services. Along with treatment, free medicines are distributed in each camp.” He further said that before the camp started, training was provided to the workers and the message of this initiative was conveyed by going from door to door of the locals. “This program will continue as part of the civic service of the people under the guidance of Tarique Rahman,” he added.

In response to a question from journalists, Papel said, “Just as the Zia family was by the side of the people before independence, it is working for the welfare of the people even after independence. After 1975, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman guided the nation on the right path. Later, Begum Khaleda Zia established democracy through the anti-dictatorship movement in 1990. Currently, the movement of the people is moving forward under the leadership of national leader Tarique Rahman.”

During the camp, free treatment and medicines were provided to 700 underprivileged people, after which the leaflets on 31-point was distributed among the locals. At that time, Dhaka Metropolitan North BNP Members Hafizul Hasan Shuvro and Hanif Mia, Dhaka Metropolitan North Jubo Dal former joint convener Khalil Chowdhury, BNP leaders Kazi Liton, Rahat Hossain, Judge Mia, Md Taufiqur Rahman Chowdhury Tuhin and Shafayet Rabbi Arafat, Darus Salam Thana BNP Joint Convener Alamgir Hossain Bhutto, Darus Salam Thana Sramik Dal Convener Golam Rashul Parvez, Ward No. 10 BNP General Secretary Mosharraf Hossain Ratan, Senior Vice-Presidents Shahen Shah Shahin, Dr Chaudhry Hasanul Kayes and Monowar Hossain Monowar, youth leader Selim Mia, Senior Joint  General Secretary Zahirul Islam Zahir, Shah Ali Thana Chhatra Dal former president Abul Kalam Azad Lenin, Dhaka Metropolitan North former member Rafiqul Islam Rafiq, Azizur Rahman Shahin,

Darus Salam Thana Chhatra Dal former president Shyamal Ahmed Russell, Dhaka Metropolitan West Chhatra Dal Vice-President Sarwar Alam Pias, Mirpur Thana Chhatra Dal former president Faisal Ahmed, Ward No. 10 Jubo Dal Convener Quddusur Rahman Biplob, Member Secretary Santanur Rahman Rubel, Darus Salam Thana Swechchhasebak Dal leaders Hafizur Rahman Hafiz and Akhter Hossain Mamun, Shah Ali Thana Sramik Dal former general secretary Monir Hosen, Member Secretary Awlad Hossain Rubel, Darus Salam Thana Sramik Dal Joint Conveners Apan Mahmud Shahin, Mosharraf Hossain, Imran Hossain, Zakir Hossain, Jewel Mia, Saidul Islam and Kamal Hossain, Darus Salam Thana Chhatra Dal Convener Iqbal Hossain Dipu and others were present.

Acting on the information, a team from Mirpur Model Police Station led by Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md. Sajjad Roman, along with Kilo-71, Lima-71, and Honda Mobile-71 units, conducted a swift raid. At approximately 4:20 am, when police reached in front of Villa Magnolia Building on Boundary Road, Mirpur-10, several individuals were seen loitering. On sensing police presence, they attempted to flee, but two were apprehended.

The detainees are:

1. Md. Bacchu (40) 

2. Hridoy Parvez Titu (33)

During the operation, the following items were recovered from their possession and in abandoned condition nearby:

One iron rod

One machete

One wooden stick

Two iron pipes

One unexploded cocktail bomb

Ten posters featuring the image of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman In primary interrogation, they admitted that they had gathered there with the intent of carrying out sabotage on the occasion of the death anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on August 15.

They also confessed that several associates, who managed to escape, were present at the scene. Among them are Rashed (35), Rakib (32), Humayun Shooter (32), Nur Hossain Shooter (40), Chhoto Kamrul (34), fish trader Lokman (45), Sojal (35), Kala Mintu (45) along with 10–12 others.

Police have stated that drives are ongoing to arrest the fugitives. Legal proceedings against the arrestees are underway.

He further added: “To successfully implement social initiatives, local leaders and activists must work in coordination. BNP will not tolerate extortionists. Organizational action is being taken immediately against those involved in such misconduct.” A majority of the patients who came to receive treatment were women and elderly individuals. They expressed satisfaction after receiving free medical services. A local woman commented: “This kind of initiative is a blessing for the poor. If such camps are held regularly, many diseases can be prevented in advance, and untimely deaths can be reduced.” During the event, local leaders and activists also shared their thoughts and expressed hope that such programs would be organized on a larger scale in the future. ---Among the Attendees: The free medical camp was initiated by Mostafa Jaglul Pasha Papel, a leader of the masses from Mirpur, Shah Ali, and Darus Salam areas, and former Member Secretary of Dhaka Metropolitan North Jubo Dal. The chief guest of the event was Ferdousi Ahmed Misti, Joint Convener of Dhaka Metropolitan North BNP.

Other notable attendees included: Abdullah Abdul, Hafizur Rahman Shuvro, Ziaur Rahman Zia, Mohsin Siddiq Rony (General Secretary, Dhaka Metropolitan North Volunteer Team), youth leaders Khalil Chowdhury, Toufiqul Rahman Chowdhury Tuhin, Safayet Rabbi Arafat, Abul Kalam Azad Lenin, Rasheduzzaman Faisal, Mirza Mamun, Rafiqul Islam Rafiq, Shyamal Ahmed Russell, Kuddus Rahman Biplob, Santanur Rahman Rubel, volunteer leader Akhtar Hossain Mamun, Hafizur Rahman Hafiz, Ward No. 7 BNP President Shamim Ahmed, SM Shafiqul Islam (Metropolitan West Chhatra Dal leader), Rafiqul Islam Jinnah, Sarwar Alam Piyas, Mirpur College Convener Maudud Ahmed, Darus Salam Thana Chhatra Dal Convener Iqbal Hasan Dipu, Jihad Hossain, Rizvi Ahmed Dipto, and others.

In another case, a young man described his brother’s psychological collapse after working in an intelligence agency. He had been ordered to compile a list of political dissidents and later discovered those listed were eliminated. Overwhelmed with guilt, he was eventually hospitalized for severe psychological distress. A soldier told the commission that upon his posting to a secret detention facility known for brutal treatment of detainees, he was ordered to avoid normal behavior or empathy toward captives. Guards were told not to speak near detainees, instead using "signs and whistles." This was later corroborated by multiple blindfolded victims who recognized those auditory cues. Despite this environment, some resistance did occur. That same soldier reportedly gave his meals to detainees, who were otherwise underfed. This act was later confirmed by a detainee who had received such food. The emotional toll of complicity was evident. Testimonies described personnel breaking under pressure or finding ways to resist. One RAB intelligence officer was allegedly ordered to kill a long-term detainee whose identity had been compromised but refused to carry out the order and remained in his post until August 5.

In another instance, two RAB officers wrote hand-written notes to their intelligence chief, declaring they would not follow any illegal orders. One note read: “If there is any plan of extrajudicial killing or firing which is not permitted by the law of the country, I cannot take part in such an act.” According to the report, these attitudes were communicated to the then-prime minister, with the notes eventually recovered from her official residence after the change of regime. Nonetheless, the report said, grave crimes continued. Witnesses testified that victims were executed in isolated areas, thrown in front of moving vehicles, or had their bodies disposed of on railway tracks—all away from public view. “There was an environment in which crimes like enforced disappearances were tacitly condoned, and those who committed them were not regarded as offenders in any meaningful way,” the commission observed. It also found evidence of foreign involvement. “Parallel to the India nexus, the Awami League also benefited from sustained Western cooperation under the banner of counterterrorism,” the report said.

Senior officers confirmed that this cooperation, particularly with the United States, contributed to capacity building within the security sector—even as human rights abuses continued. One detainee testified that he was interrogated by two Americans while in the custody of the Detective Branch (DB). The commission stated that while these foreign individuals did not directly participate in abuse, “their presence gave legitimacy to a broader system of enforced detention.”

The 14-day cricket extravaganza, which commenced on May 8 following a glamorous trophy unveiling at Sheraton Dhaka on April 27, brought together 20 prestigious hotels from across Bangladesh. The event not only highlighted sporting prowess but also underscored unity, camaraderie, and team spirit within the hospitality community.

Among the participating hotels were leading names such as Amari Dhaka, InterContinental Dhaka, Le Méridien Dhaka, Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka, Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan, Six Seasons Hotel, and Sayeman Beach Resort Ltd, showcasing a rare convergence of competition and collaboration.

The final showdown between Sheraton Dhaka and The Westin Dhaka captivated the audience with thrilling performances and exemplary teamwork. The Westin Dhaka ultimately lifted the coveted BCL 2025 trophy, marking a proud moment for the entire Marriott cluster.

Dignitaries and VIP guests graced the event, including Mr. Abu Tahir Muhammad Zaber, CEO of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism; Mr. Iftekhar Rahman, Chairman of the BCB Media Department; Mr. Mamun Hasan Emon, Executive Director of Remark Herlan; Mr. HM Hakim Ali, President of BIHA; and Mr. Shakawath Hossain, Chairman of the Board of BIHA Champions League 2025 and CEO of Unique Hotel & Resorts PLC.

The tournament was supported by an impressive roster of sponsors and partners, including Noor Ali Family Trust (Associate Sponsor), Jamuna Television (Media Partner), Silent Sports (Broadcasting Partner), and MV Traders (Official Jersey Partner). Logistical support was provided by HANSA Management Ltd. and At Your Services Ltd., with additional backing from Sunbit, Tylox, Acnol, Herlan, Diversy, US Bangla, Noor Trade House, Quality Agro, Pran Agro, Bengal Meat, and Taj Enterprise.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, BIHA officials extended heartfelt thanks to all stakeholders who contributed to the event’s success. They emphasized the league’s mission to create an avenue for hospitality professionals to connect beyond boardrooms and banquet halls, using sports to nurture friendship, teamwork, and wellness.

Aparajito 24 Foundation, a voluntary organization, is working tirelessly to ensure proper medical treatment, rehabilitation, employment, and rights for the students and citizens injured during the July 36 movement. This information was shared by the organization's policymakers at a discussion event held today at a convention hall in Banani.

Dr. Parveen Rahman, President of the organization, stated, “The courage and sacrifice shown by students and citizens during the July 36 movement will remain forever memorable in the history of Bangladesh. The nation can never repay this debt.”

Former advisor Rasheda K Chowdhury added, “We are sending the injured abroad for advanced medical treatment at the foundation’s expense. We are also arranging long-term rehabilitation and employment opportunities for them.”

Major General (Retd.) Aziz, also present at the event, said that most members of the organization are retired professionals and expatriates. Even though they could not physically join the movement, they find fulfillment in serving those who were injured.

At the event, the parents and children of the martyrs of the July 36 movement shared emotional memories and expressed deep gratitude to the foundation for their compassionate efforts.

The mother of a martyred youth, overcome with emotion, said, “My child is no longer with us, but those standing by the injured today feel like they have taken on my child’s responsibility.”

The foundation affirmed its commitment to expanding its efforts in the future. Aparajito 24 Foundation plans to continue supporting the families of martyrs and the injured by providing financial stability, education, healthcare, and other essential services.

 International Chess Grandmaster Rani Hamid, Director of the National Institute of Ophthalmology Dr. Khair Ahmed Chowdhury, Shahriar Akhtar Haque Don, Saiful Islam Duke, among others were also present..
The event was held in an emotional atmosphere, where all attendees agreed that this noble initiative to stand by the injured and the families of the martyrs must be carried forward on a broader scale.

Traders claim that their main business begins in the evening, especially as working people come to shop after office hours. One clothing vendor stated, “Our main sales start after the evening. If we close at 8 PM, we lose nearly half of our business. It becomes difficult to sustain the shop.” Another electronics shop owner said, “We try to follow the rules. But when neighboring shops stay open, we can’t afford to close early and just sit idle.”
This violation is causing significant inconvenience to local residents. With shops open late, the area faces crowding, traffic jams, noise pollution, and even security concerns.

Local resident Hasina Begum said, “It’s impossible to walk through the area until 11 PM. Cars, rickshaws, street vendors—all together create chaos. Children can’t even sleep properly.”

A young man added, “It’s not just the noise—after 10 PM, many unknown individuals roam the area. This raises serious security concerns.”

Authorities Evading Responsibility
A member of the market’s management committee said, “We regularly instruct the shopkeepers to close by 8 PM. But in practice, many don’t comply. Some even keep their shops open secretly. We don’t have administrative authority, so it’s difficult to take action.”

The responsibility to enforce this regulation lies with both Dhaka North City Corporation and the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP). A DMP official commented, “We occasionally carry out raids, but it’s hard to monitor all markets regularly. If the market authorities were more cooperative, it would make the job easier.”

Urban planners and public safety analysts believe this type of rule-breaking is not just a local issue but a reflection of broader urban management failure. They argue that when laws are not enforced strictly, violations become the norm, disrupting the city's natural rhythm.

One prominent urban expert remarked, “If every part of the city starts ignoring the rules, overall safety, traffic, and environmental issues will worsen. The local administration must take a firm stance.”