Dhaka, August 6 - Former Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmood was detained at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Tuesday afternoon while attempting to leave the country. This comes in the wake of widespread unrest following the resignation and departure of Awami League President Sheikh Hasina.

Hasan Mahmood had planned to brief foreign diplomats, United Nations representatives, and other organizations in Dhaka about the ongoing situation related to the quota movement on Monday, August 5. However, the briefing was canceled as the city witnessed widespread protests, with students and the general public occupying the streets before noon. Since then, Mahmood had not been seen until his detention at the airport.

In a related incident, former State Minister for Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology Junaid Ahmed Palak was also prevented from leaving the country. Palak, who arrived at the airport with two personal officers around 3 PM, was taken into custody by immigration authorities and not allowed to board his flight. He reportedly attempted to leave for India through the VIP lounge but was intercepted.

The situation has left many Awami League members disoriented and fearful for their safety. The homes of party leaders have been attacked, vandalized, and set on fire across the country. While some leaders managed to leave Bangladesh, others are seeking refuge in various embassies, fearing for their lives.

The upheaval follows the dramatic resignation and departure of Sheikh Hasina to India on Monday, August 5, amid a student-led coup. The turmoil has shaken the political landscape of Bangladesh, leaving many in uncertainty.