Heightened Security Around Shahbag and InterContinental

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) have imposed heightened security across Shahbag, the Hotel InterContinental precinct and adjoining neighbourhoods, following clashes between police and activists of Inqilab Mancha a day earlier. The enhanced measures were visible from Saturday morning, reflecting authorities’ efforts to prevent a repeat of Friday’s unrest and to maintain public order in a highly sensitive area of the capital.

On Saturday, additional police contingents were deployed at key junctions including Shahbag, Kakrail and the approaches to the InterContinental Hotel. Rows of water cannons were positioned as a precautionary show of force. Notably, however, no physical barricades were erected in front of Shahbag, Kakrail or the hotel, suggesting that the police were opting for visible deterrence rather than full road closures.

A visit to the area revealed a markedly quieter scene than usual. Vehicular movement was lighter than on a typical weekend morning, and pedestrian numbers were noticeably low, indicating public caution after the previous day’s disturbances.

The security build-up followed violent confrontations on Friday, when Inqilab Mancha activists staged a sit-in at the InterContinental intersection, demanding justice for the killing of Hadi, which occurred 54 days ago. Family members and colleagues say no meaningful progress has been made in bringing the perpetrators to account, fuelling growing frustration among supporters.

According to eyewitness accounts, the demonstrators attempted to march towards the Jamuna area in the afternoon. Law enforcement agencies intervened and blocked their advance. When protesters reportedly tried to breach police barricades, officers responded with water cannons, sound grenades and baton charges. The situation quickly escalated into running clashes, turning the surrounding streets into a scene of chaos.

Several activists were injured, including Inqilab Mancha’s member secretary, Abdullah Al Jaber, who was taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital for treatment. Later in the day, at around 5 pm, Inqilab Mancha leaders and supporters brought out another procession from the Raju Sculpture, eventually occupying Shahbag intersection and blocking the road. Further clashes ensued before police regained control of the area.

In a video statement issued while receiving treatment, Abdullah Al Jaber alleged that the police action was intended to derail the forthcoming election scheduled for the 12th. He insisted that the election must proceed on that date regardless of further losses. He also warned that whichever political party assumes power afterwards would face sustained pressure if decisive steps were not taken to ensure justice for Hadi’s killing.

Key Events at a Glance

The situation remains tense, with authorities maintaining vigilance as political activists vow to continue their campaign until their demands are addressed.