Entry into Noakhali District Awami League Office After 17 Months

PNN News Desk: Noakhali

After nearly 17 months of closure, the Noakhali District Awami League office was forcibly entered early Wednesday morning. Allegedly, 30–35 leaders and activists of the banned Bangladesh Chhatra League were involved in the incident at around 7 a.m.

The office is located at Town Hall Corner in Noakhali city. Eyewitnesses reported that after breaking the lock and entering, the group chanted slogans and stayed for a brief period. They also hung a banner before quickly leaving the scene.

Police arrived at the location after being informed and arrested five suspects. By around 10:30 a.m., additional police were deployed in front of the office. The arrested individuals were placed in a police vehicle. Local shopkeepers and residents showed curiosity during the incident.

A video circulating on social media showed several people holding a banner reading “Noakhali District Awami League Office” while chanting slogans. An elderly person was also seen with the group. After hanging the banner, they quickly dispersed.

Md. Tauhidul Islam, Officer-in-Charge of Sudharam Police Station, confirmed that five individuals were arrested for breaking the office lock. Operations are ongoing to identify and apprehend others involved.

It is notable that on August 3, 2024, during an anti-discrimination movement, the office was attacked with gunfire and arson. Since August 5, after the fall of the Awami League government, the main entrance of the building remained locked.

The incident has created new tensions in the area. Law enforcement is monitoring the situation, according to local sources.