Simultaneous Cocktail Bomb Explosions and Arson in Dhaka, Security Tightened

PNN News Desk | Dhaka

Cocktail bomb explosions and arson incidents occurred simultaneously in different areas of Dhaka on Monday, spreading fear and anxiety across the capital. At least 11 cocktail attacks and three bus arson incidents were reported throughout the day. No major casualties were reported, but police and RAB have increased vigilance to control the situation.

According to the Chief Advisor’s Press Wing, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) and RAB have launched a joint investigation. Strict measures will be taken to prevent any attempts to disturb religious harmony. All police stations in Dhaka have been instructed to enhance patrols, monitoring, and preventive measures until 13 November. Notably, the day coincides with the scheduled verdict in the case against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at the International Crimes Tribunal.

The first explosion occurred early morning in front of the Grameen Bank headquarters. According to Mirpur Model Police Station, two individuals on a motorcycle threw a cocktail bomb at the building and fled. Simultaneous attacks occurred in front of a company owned by the Deputy Director of Fisheries and Livestock in Mohammadpur. Four cocktail attacks were also reported in Dhanmondi, Midas Center, and Ibn Sina Hospital.

In the evening, explosions occurred near Mouchak, Bangladesh Betar in Agargaon, Khilgaon Flyover, and Shah Ali Market in Mirpur. At 10 pm, another cocktail bomb was thrown from a flyover. The final explosion of the day occurred at 11:10 pm in front of the NCP office in Banglamotor, slightly injuring a pedestrian. One unexploded bomb was recovered from the site. Five individuals have been arrested so far.

Police sources said that intelligence operations have intensified to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. Some Awami League activists openly declared their willingness to act for their leaders. More than two dozen suspects were arrested in separate operations on Monday.

The government has sent a strong message about protecting religious harmony. Security has been heightened at churches, temples, mosques, and other places of worship in Dhaka. A senior official from the Ministry of Home Affairs stated, “Every attempt to destabilize the country will be countered quickly and strictly; public safety, national unity, and protection of democratic transition remain our priorities.”

Maximum alert has been declared in the capital, with enhanced patrolling, lighting, CCTV monitoring, and emergency preventive measures at important government and public facilities. Special security measures have also been taken at railway, metro, and other key infrastructures.