Cox’s Bazar Court Shooting Incident

An armed attack targeting a political figure outside a court premises in south-eastern Bangladesh has left one person injured and triggered widespread panic among lawyers, litigants and visitors.

The incident occurred on Sunday at approximately 11:00am within the premises of the Cox’s Bazar District and Sessions Judge Court. The target of the attack was local political leader Liakat Ali, General Secretary of the Jhilonja Union unit of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and a former Union Parishad member.

According to eyewitness accounts and law enforcement sources, Liakat Ali had attended a scheduled court hearing and was leaving the premises after completing his appearance. He was reportedly waiting near the court gate for transport when a group of armed assailants launched a sudden and coordinated attack, opening fire in what appears to have been a premeditated attempt on his life.

Although Liakat Ali managed to escape immediate harm by moving quickly away from the line of fire, his cousin and close associate Moinuddin was struck by bullets during the incident. He sustained gunshot injuries and was promptly taken to hospital for treatment. His current condition has not been officially detailed by authorities.

The attack caused chaos within the court complex. Lawyers, court officials, and members of the public rushed for safety as gunshots rang out near the main entrance. Several individuals described scenes of confusion and fear as people scattered to avoid further danger.

In the immediate aftermath, members of the public managed to apprehend one suspect identified as Ziaul Haque Zia. He was handed over to police at the scene. Law enforcement officials later confirmed the recovery of a firearm and ammunition from the detained individual. However, at least one or more additional suspects are believed to have been involved and successfully fled the area.

Preliminary police assessments suggest that longstanding personal enmity may have motivated the attack. Authorities also noted that Liakat Ali had previously survived a similar attempt on his life in the same locality last October, when he was allegedly targeted in a combined shooting and bladed assault.

Following the incident, security in and around the court premises was significantly strengthened. Additional police personnel were deployed to maintain order and prevent any further escalation. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have stated that efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the remaining suspects involved in the attack.

Key Details of the Incident

The incident has once again raised serious concerns regarding security within judicial premises, with authorities under pressure to ensure stricter safeguards for court visitors and political figures alike.