Tensions flared in the Banglamotor area of the capital following an altercation, gunfire, and a subsequent clash between local residents and police stemming from a dispute involving Ferdous Ahamed Saymon, former convenor of Hatirjheel Thana Jubo Dal. Police subsequently arrested Saymon at the scene. According to local residents, his two brothers, Omar Ahamed and Mizan Ahamed, were also present during the incident.
Locals alleged that an argument broke out between Saymon and a local resident, Mehidi Hasan Sohan. At one point during the altercation, Saymon reportedly drew a firearm and struck Sohan on the head, causing him injury.
As news of the incident spread, enraged locals gathered in protest, prompting Saymon to allegedly fire five rounds of blank shots into the air. Facing a chase from the mob, Saymon and his brothers fled into a nearby building for shelter.
The aggrieved crowd encircled the building and set fire to a motorcycle belonging to Saymon. Multiple police teams were dispatched to the location to bring the deteriorating situation under control.
A clash later broke out between the police and the angry crowd. Locals alleged that the police had arrived primarily to escort Saymon to safety. Police authorities have not issued an official statement regarding these allegations.
As tensions escalated further, additional police units reinforced the area and arrested Ferdous Ahamed Saymon from the residence where he was taking refuge.
Local residents alleged that Saymon has long been involved in various criminal activities, including extortion, intimidation, illegal drug trade, and land grabbing. They claimed that his illicit activities intensified following the political transition on 5 August, with low-income and vulnerable residents bearing the brunt of his harassment.
Furthermore, locals stated that although Saymon was expelled from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) several months ago, his influence in the area remained unchecked due to backing from high-ranking political figures.
Neither Saymon nor his family members could be reached for comment regarding the allegations.
Following the incident, fear and panic prevailed across the Banglamotor neighbourhood. Residents noted that the outbreak of violence was the culmination of long-standing anger against systemic intimidation, drug dealing, and extortion in the locality.
Law enforcement agencies have initiated legal proceedings regarding the unauthorized use of firearms, assault, and associated charges.
