Dhaka, 24 July- In an unprecedented wave of anarchy following the announcement of a complete shutdown by quota agitators, widespread vandalism and violence gripped Bangladesh from Thursday, July 18. Various government buildings were attacked, set on fire, looted, and vandalized, alongside vehicles of ordinary citizens. The situation spiraled out of control for almost two days, with roads blocked and communication systems disrupted.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina condemned the attacks, highlighting the scale of violence and sabotage. Below is a summary of the significant incidents during this period:

Key Incidents and Attacks:

 

1. BTV Building Fire: The Bangladesh Television (BTV) building was set ablaze, severely disrupting its operations.

2. Health Department Vehicles Burned: Hundreds of vehicles belonging to the Department of Health were torched, and fires were set at the site.

3. Bridge Building Attacks: The bridge building was attacked twice, with 50 cars torched and looted.

4. Expanded Immunization Program Office: The office was attacked and damaged.

5. Metrorail Vandalism: Stations at Farmgate and Diabari Metrorail Depot were vandalized.

6. Toll Plaza Fires: The Mayor Mohammad Hanif Flyover toll plaza in Shanir Akhara was attacked and set on fire.

7. Science Research Center: The center was attacked and set on fire.

8. PTI Office in Dhanmondi: The office was attacked.

9. Disaster Management Office: The office was attacked and hundreds of cars were set on fire.

10. Mohakhali Data Center: The data center was attacked and burned down.

11. Mohakhali Complex Fires: The Corona Hospital, Nutrition Institute, Health Department, and BRTA building were set on fire.

12. Aftabnagar Wasa Refinery: The refinery was attacked.

13. Police Outpost Fires: Outposts in Badda, Newmarket, and Nilakshet were set ablaze.

14. Raipur Police Station: The station was attacked and set on fire.

15. Rampura Police Station: The station was set on fire.

16. Meradia PBI Office: The office was vandalized.

17. Uttara Railway Line: Railway lines were uprooted.

18. Beehive Police Box and City Hospital: Both were attacked.

19. Police Stations in Kadmatoli and Mohammadpur: Stations were attacked and the RAB office in Barisal was also attacked.

20. Law Enforcement Casualties: RAB and police officers were killed, with some hanged.

21. Fokirapool Police Box: The police box was vandalized.

22. Uttara Police Office: The DC Office and TST regional office were attacked.

23. Awami League Offices: Offices in Tangail, Madhupur, Kalihati, and Gaibandha were attacked, with injuries reported among officials.

24. Bogura Violence: Various offices, including the Jasad Office and Freedom Fighters Complex, were vandalized and looted.

25. Gazipur Attacks: Police stations and offices were vandalized, with fires set at the Gazipur City Corporation office.

26. DESCO Power Station Fire: The power station in Tongi was set on fire.

27. Beximco Garments: The factory was attacked and vandalized.

28. Narayanganj Violence: The district hospital and City Corporation office were attacked and set on fire, along with a garment factory.

The government imposed a curfew and deployed the army to control the situation, leading to a gradual restoration of order. Broadband internet service was restored on July 23, but mobile internet remained suspended.

The violent protests and widespread destruction underscore the deep-rooted tensions and the urgent need for resolution. The government continues to prioritize the safety and security of its citizens while addressing the demands of the quota reform movement.