Belgian Expat’s Ancestral Home Torched in Chandpur Over Insult to Prophet (PBUH)

In Matlab South, Chandpur, an incident of violence erupted after a Belgian expatriate, Mehedi Hasan Anonto, allegedly made derogatory remarks about the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) on his personal Facebook account. In response, enraged locals set fire to his ancestral house in the village.

The event occurred on Tuesday, 19 August, in the evening. Upon receiving information, the Matlab South Upazila administration and local police rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control.

A team from the Matlab South Fire Service also attended the scene, attempting to prevent the flames from spreading further, but the house belonging to the expatriate was largely destroyed.

Background of the Accused

The remarks triggered widespread anger across the region. Earlier in the day, the Imam-Ulama Unity Council (Khadergaon Union branch) organised a human chain and protest rally at the premises of Nagda Al Iqra Noorani Cadet Madrasa.

Before the rally commenced, furious locals, along with groups of religious activists, stormed Anonto’s abandoned house, demolished it, and set it ablaze.

During the protest gathering, speeches were delivered by:

• Maulana Abdur Razzak – President, Imam-Ulama Unity Council (Khadergaon Union)
• Maulana Saiful Islam – President, Narayanpur Union branch
• Maulana Zohirul Islam – Treasurer, Khadergaon Union branch

The protest also saw participation from the Matlab South Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Amjad Hossain, who expressed solidarity with the protesters’ sentiment but urged restraint.

“Whoever dares to speak disrespectfully about our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) must face justice under the law. However, attacking and burning down houses is not the right approach. Everyone must respect the law while protesting,” UNO Amjad Hossain stated.

He further assured the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted and the maximum punishment ensured for the accused.

Also present at the scene were Assistant Commissioner (Land) Mumtahina Prithula and Officer-in-Charge (OC) Mohammad Saleh Ahmed of Matlab South Police Station.