According to Dhaka Tribune, at least 72 people were detained in Bangladesh on Wednesday for their roles in theft and stealing during large-scale anti-Israel protests earlier this month.
On Monday, thousands of people took to the streets to protest Israel’s continued defense activities in Gaza, including the investment Dhaka. In what the organizers described as a part of a worldwide action supporting Palestinians, protesters from different political, social, religious, social, and professional organizations joined forces.
Nevertheless, the protests turned violent when crowds vandalized shops and businesses in places like Bogra, Sylhet, Cox’s Bazar, and another, with some aiming at businesses that appeared to have connections to Israel. Firms like Bata, KFC, and Pizza Hut were attacked as protesters demanded a protest of Israeli-affiliated goods.
Students at the demonstrations overwhelmingly participated, with many of the students taking exams and classes to demonstrate in unity. Arab protesters chanted slogans, raised placards, and set fire an Israeli prime minister’s image. The protests echoed resounding criticism of American support for Israel and anger over the silence of international organizations like the UN, OIC, and Arab League.
However, many gatherings remained quiet while some became violent, leading to theft and property damage.
According to Yunus,” Police have quickly moved to take activity.”
Muhammad Yunus, the interim chief assistant for Bangladesh, addressed the turmoil in a speech posted on X. He wrote,” Bangladeshi authorities have quickly moved to take actions over the violent and unlawful events that occurred during the Pro-Gaza demonstrations in various locations on Monday.” These vandalism and assaults are” a retaliation for the rule of law and public safety.”
He more confirmed that at least 60 people had been detained at the time of the initial arrest.
In a prior X article on Monday, Yunus vehemently denounced Israel’s deeds in Gaza:” The State of Bangladesh expresses its strongest criticism of the Israeli Occupying Forces ‘ continued mass killings and gross human rights violations in the Gaza Strip.”
He referred to the position as a “human catastrophe,” noting that Israel’s ceasefire violations had caused scores of Palestinians ‘ incidents, many of whom were children and women, while also preventing humanitarian assistance.
Over 50, 000 people have died and at least 115, 000 have been injured as a result of the ongoing conflict, according to Gaza’s health department, as of October 7, 2023. Despite mounting global pressure, ceasefire efforts have constantly failed, with both sides accusing one another of violating the law.
