Sixteen Police Injured During Dhaka Protests

At least sixteen police officers were injured on Friday during clashes with protesters demanding justice for the late Shaheed Osman Hadi and the implementation of the Ninth National Pay Scale, according to the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP).

Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali, Commissioner of the DMP, confirmed the number of injuries to the media on Saturday. He reported that the officers wounded in the confrontations came from various units of the force, including one Additional Deputy Inspector General (DIG), one Inspector, one Sergeant, and multiple constables. Most sustained injuries to their hands, legs, and heads, with some requiring medical attention. One officer needed sutures for a head wound.

The DMP emphasised that no firearms or live ammunition were used to disperse the illegal gatherings. A statement issued later on Friday night reiterated that the law enforcement response adhered strictly to standard operating procedures.

Muhammad Talebur Rahman, Deputy Police Commissioner of the DMP Media and Public Relations Division, explained in the release that the demonstrations occurred in contravention of existing restrictions. "Despite a clear prohibition on gatherings, assemblies, marches, and protests in the vicinity of the state guesthouse Jamuna and surrounding areas, several groups attempted to advance toward Jamuna, pressing their demands," he said. "In order to maintain public order and ensure the safety of the Chief Adviser, police deployed tear gas and sound grenades to disperse the crowds."

The statement also warned against the circulation of false and misleading information on social media, which appeared aimed at misrepresenting the incident. "The dispersal of protesters was carried out entirely within legal and procedural bounds, without the use of firearms or live rounds," the statement added. Several protesters sustained minor injuries during the confrontation.

The DMP has urged the public not to be swayed by misinformation or sensationalised reports regarding the incident.

Injured Police Officers (Friday Clashes)

The DMP reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order while ensuring the safety of both officers and citizens during protests.