A series of three crude bomb explosions within four minutes created widespread panic in the Gopalcharan area of Sundarganj municipality in Gaibandha early on Sunday morning, with locals reporting that the blasts were accompanied by “Joy Bangla” slogans.
The explosions occurred in rapid succession between 4:26am and 4:30am. The first crude bomb detonated at 4:26am directly in front of the residence of former Sundarganj Upazila Parishad vice chairman Abu Solaiman Sarkar Saja. Two minutes later, at 4:28am, a second blast occurred outside Gopalcharan High School, followed by a third explosion at 4:30am on the road south of the school.
Terrified by the loud consecutive blasts, local residents rushed out of their homes into the streets. However, no major damage or casualties were reported from the incident.
Recounting the event, Saja said, “First, there was a loud noise in front of my house before Fajr prayers. A short while later, I heard two more explosions in front of the school and on the road to its south. We were panicked by the three consecutive loud sounds. Crude bomb explosions have never occurred in this area before”.
He added that neighbours had also gathered outside, and police were immediately notified, after which officers arrived and recovered the shells of the exploded crude bombs.
Sundarganj Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Shahin Mohammad Amanullah confirmed that a police team was dispatched to the scene upon receiving information.
“Remnants of bomb-like crude bombs were recovered from the spot, though no suspects could be detained immediately,” OC said, adding that an investigation is underway and efforts are ongoing to identify those involved.
