The Detective Branch (DB) of the Mirpur Division of Dhaka Metropolitan Police has arrested 11 leaders and activists of the activity-banned Awami League, Jubo League and Chhatra League for attempting sabotage during garment workers’ protests in Mirpur-10 and nearby areas of the capital.
Police said they had infiltrated the workers’ movement to incite violence and carry out arson attacks.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) of DB Mirpur Division Mohammad Rakib Khan confirmed the arrests on Sunday afternoon.
According to Rakib, garment workers have been demonstrating for the past few days, blocking roads to demand an increase in their minimum monthly wage.
However, the movement turned violent on Saturday, with fresh clashes occurring between police and protesters on Sunday, during which a police vehicle was set on fire.
Police said activists of Awami League and its affiliated wings had infiltrated the workers’ movement to incite violence and carry out acts of sabotage using garment workers.
11 individuals were apprehended among the protesting workers while attempting arson and sabotage.
Drives conducted in Mirpur-10 and adjacent areas revealed that those arrested are grassroots leaders from various districts across the country, including Barishal, Patuakhali, Cox’s Bazar and Gaibandha.
Investigators identified Alif Mollah, nephew of fugitive Member of Parliament (MP) Ilias Mollah, as the key coordinator of the sabotage efforts.
Police revealed that Alif had brought these activists to Dhaka from various districts outside the capital to stage the violence.
Around 100 leaders and activists were reportedly present at the scene, and drives are currently underway to identify and arrest the remaining suspects.
