A group of unidentified people attacked and set fire to the house of former education minister Mohibul Hassan Chowdhury Nowfel in Chattogram’s Chasma Hill area early Friday.
The incident took place at around 2am on Friday, when the attackers allegedly vandalised the house before setting it on fire.
Police, Fire Service officials and local residents said several people entered the area late at night and attempted to torch the residence.
At one stage, the fire spread through a gas pipeline, creating panic among nearby residents.
When locals rushed to the spot, the attackers fled the scene. Later, Fire Service personnel brought the blaze under control, while police reached the area and took charge of the situation.
Officer-in-Charge of Panchlaish Police Station Md Zahedul Islam said police went to the spot after receiving reports of the attack around 2am.
“The matter is being investigated,” he said.
Nowfel’s brother alleged that petrol bombs were thrown at the residence. Police have not yet made any official comment regarding the allegation.
The house is the family residence of late former Chattogram City Corporation mayor ABM Mohiuddin Chowdhury.
Since the political changeover on 5 August, 2024, no family members have been regularly staying there except security personnel.
Local residents have linked the incident to the country’s recent political situation, though law enforcement agencies have not made any official statement on the matter.
The incident came a day after Nowfel took part in an online press conference of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently staying in India.
Former national cricket team captain and former lawmaker Shakib Al Hasan also joined the programme virtually.
The following day, a fire was reported at Shakib’s house in Magura. The house had reportedly remained vacant for a long time following several attacks after the July uprising.
