Police suspect a “specific motive” behind the garment workers’ demonstration in the capital’s Mirpur area, noting that the protesters do not appear to be genuine workers.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday afternoon regarding the overall situation, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) South Division Deputy Commissioner (DC) Touhidul Arif said a section of miscreants attempted to irreparably damage the industry and placed barricades on Mirpur-11 road.
He added that the police handled the situation with a firm hand and would be even tougher if required.
Claiming that the situation is currently under police control, the DMP official noted that the demonstrators hurled bricks and stones targeting police personnel.
He further informed that traffic movement on the road is now normal, whilst police forces are patrolling various side streets and alleys to inspect whether anyone is positioned there.
When questioned about a video circulating showing a police member being beaten with sticks in the morning, Arif said they had seen the video and that necessary action would be taken regarding the incident.
Regarding the identity of the demonstrators and whether anyone is instigating them behind the scenes, the police officer remarked that these details will be confirmed later.
Sharing his observation, Arif said his belief that genuine workers are not on the streets, as they might have gone to their respective homes on the holiday or are working inside garment factories.
He added that those currently present on the street appear to be occupying the area with a special motive.
Meanwhile, DMP has arrested 33 members of a banned organisation on charges of sabotage whilst disguised as garment workers.
