Bangladesh Army has launched an investigation into the “unwanted incidents” which occurred during the rescue operation following the Air Force jet crash into Milestone School in Uttara area of the capital on Monday.
According to a statement of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the army has taken the matter seriously and initiated a formal inquiry.
Disciplinary action will be taken against any individuals found responsible for misconduct during the rescue efforts, it reads.
The crash occurred around 1:18pm in the Diabari area of Uttara, killing 31 people and injuring scores, mostly minor children.
Army personnel from a nearby camp rushed to the site and joined the rescue operation in coordination with the fire service and other emergency agencies to ensure immediate medical aid for the injured, ISPR said
However, a large crowd of people gathered at the site, repeatedly hampering evacuation and rescue efforts.
During the rescue operation in the afternoon, despite repeated requests, some curious onlookers refused to leave the crash site, severely hampering the evacuation efforts, the statement read.
“As a result, misunderstandings and arguments arose between a group of onlookers, volunteers and the army personnel, which eventually led to an unwanted incident.”
The ISPR confirmed that 14 army personnel involved in the rescue operation fell ill due to their efforts and are currently receiving treatment at the Combined Military Hospital (CMH).