Dhaka, July 29— On Monday, the Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate, Moinul Islam, granted a six-day remand for Asif Mahtab, a former teacher at BRAC University, and Arif Sohail, a student at Jahangir Nagar University. They are implicated in a case involving the attack on Setu Bhavan, linked to the quota reform movement and transgender issues.

The court made the decision following a request by the investigating officer, DB Inspector Abu Said Mia, who had applied for a ten-day remand for both individuals. The defense lawyer, seeking bail and the cancellation of the remand, opposed the request. After the hearing, the judge approved a six-day remand.

Asif Mahtab was arrested by DB officers from his Uttara residence on Saturday night, while Arif Sohail was detained from his rented house on the night of July 27.

The case details allege that on July 18, around 250 to 300 anonymous individuals involved in the ongoing quota reform movement arrived at Setu Bhavan armed with domestic weapons, batons, and bricks. They reportedly shouted anti-government slogans and eventually broke through the main gate, vandalizing the premises. The damage extended to vehicles, buildings, CC cameras, and office equipment, causing extensive destruction and setting fires throughout the building.

The assailants also attacked and injured the senior secretary, office staff, and security personnel with the intent to kill, using weapons and bricks. They caused significant damage to the offices from the ground floor to the 11th floor, including computers, laptops, file cabinets, and furniture, resulting in an estimated loss of approximately 300 crores BDT. Crucial documents related to the Bangladesh Bridge Authority, Padma Bridge Project, Multi-Lane Road Tunnel Project under the Karnaphuli River, and Dhaka Elevated Expressway Project were also destroyed.

Rabiul Islam, the caretaker of Setu Bhavan, filed the case at Banani police station, reporting the incident to higher authorities and the fire service and civil defense unit immediately.

The incident highlights the ongoing tensions and violence surrounding the quota reform movement, with significant repercussions for public property and safety. The investigation continues as authorities seek to bring those responsible to justice.