Police Arrest 17 During Pallabi Night Rally Attempt

Police have arrested 17 activists linked to the Awami League and its affiliated organisations after they allegedly attempted to stage a late-night procession in the Pallabi area of Bangladesh’s capital, Dhaka.

The arrests were made at around 6:00 a.m. on Friday (31 July) beneath the Pallabi Metro Rail section in Mirpur-12 during a police operation carried out following intelligence received by a night patrol team.

The development was confirmed later in the day by Pallabi Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Mohammad Hasan Basir.

According to the OC, a group of leaders and activists associated with the Awami League, Jubo League, Chhatra League and several of their affiliated bodies had gathered on the paved road near the eastern side of Pillar No. 140 of the Pallabi Metro Rail. Police alleged that the group had assembled with the intention of holding a procession and engaging in activities aimed at spreading propaganda and conspiring against the government.

Acting on the information, officers from a night patrol unit arrived at the location. Police said those present attempted to flee after noticing the law enforcement personnel. Following a chase, officers detained 17 individuals, while an estimated 50 to 60 others reportedly escaped from the scene.

During the operation, police seized a white Toyota Hiace microbus and recovered a banner bearing the slogan, “Sheikh Hasina Will Return, Bangladesh Will Smile.” The banner also carried the name “Ontor Islam Bappi, Convener, Dhaka North.” Investigators are examining the seized materials as part of the ongoing legal process.

Among those arrested were Sujon and Nasir, identified by police as the Member Secretary of Rupnagar Thana Chhatra League. Their mobile phones were also confiscated for examination.

Police said legal proceedings against the detainees are currently underway. Investigators are also working to identify and locate those who fled before they could be apprehended.

Law enforcement agencies have maintained heightened surveillance in several parts of Dhaka in recent months to prevent unauthorised political gatherings and processions. Police have repeatedly stated that any assembly or demonstration conducted in violation of prevailing laws or public order regulations will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

Authorities have not released the identities of all 17 detainees, and no further official details regarding the specific charges had been disclosed at the time of reporting. The investigation remains ongoing.