Bombs Target Cumilla Temple and Mosque; Three Injured

A series of alarming hand bomb explosions has rocked Cumilla city, leaving a temple priest and two muśollīs injured. The coordinated attacks, which occurred on Saturday evening, targeted both a Hindu place of worship and a nearby mosque, sparking fears of a calculated attempt to incite communal instability in the post-election period.

Terror at the Temple

The violence began at approximately 6:30 PM at the Thakurpada Kaligachhtala Temple during the Shani Puja rituals. According to Cumilla District Police Superintendent Anisuzzaman, three unidentified individuals approached the temple pavilion and hurled a crude explosive device into the assembly.

In a courageous attempt to protect the devotees, the temple’s priest, Keshab Chakraborty, tried to move the hand bomb away using a wooden staff. Unfortunately, the device detonated upon impact, causing him immediate injury. The attackers then fled the scene, but not before leaving behind a suspicious white bag at the temple gates.

Escalation at the Mosque

The perpetrators continued their trail of violence as they retreated. Upon reaching the nearby Baganbari Mosque, the attackers detonated two more hand bombs in front of the entrance. This second wave of explosions occurred just as worshippers were arriving for prayers, resulting in injuries to two muśollīs.

All three victims were swiftly transported to Cumilla Sadar Hospital, where they are currently receiving medical treatment. While the injuries are serious, hospital sources suggest they are being monitored closely by trauma specialists.

Official Response and Security Measures

Following the blasts, high-ranking officials—including District Magistrate Mu. Reza Hasan and Cumilla RAB Commander Major Sadman Ibn Alam—visited the sites to assess the damage and reassure the local community.

The police have secured the suspicious bag found at the temple. As a safety precaution, it has been submerged in water to neutralise any further explosives. “A specialist bomb disposal unit from Dhaka has been summoned to safely inspect and open the bag,” stated Superintendent Anisuzzaman.

Authorities believe the timing of the attacks is significant, suggesting a deliberate attempt by terrorists to disrupt the peace in Cumilla following the recent elections. Forensic evidence has been gathered, and a multi-agency investigation is underway to apprehend those responsible for this provocation.