Dhaka, Dec 28 (V7N) — The nationwide strike by cargo ship workers has been suspended to ensure a fair investigation and justice for the killing of seven workers aboard a ship in the Meghna River in Chandpur.

Nabi Alam, Joint Secretary of the Bangladesh Boat Federation, confirmed the suspension on Saturday, following a request from the Director General (DG) of the Department of Shipping.

"We had made four demands concerning the brutal killing of seven ship workers in the Meghna River," said Nabi Alam. "The DG Shipping has assured us of a discussion to address our concerns, prompting us to suspend the strike in the national interest."

The strike began at midnight on Thursday, with workers demanding justice for the victims, compensation for the injured, support for the families of the deceased, and enhanced safety measures for waterway workers.

The tragic incident unfolded on December 23 when law enforcement agencies recovered the bodies of five workers from the Al Bakhera ship in Haimchar, Chandpur. Three others were rescued in critical condition, but two later succumbed to their injuries.

The ship's owner, Mahbub Morshed, has filed a murder case related to the deaths. Authorities are currently investigating the case to identify those responsible.

With the strike suspended, cargo ship operations are expected to resume, ensuring the uninterrupted flow of goods across the country's waterways while discussions on worker safety and justice proceed.

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