Dhaka Bomb Blast Kills One Ahead of Key Political Leader’s Return

A deadly explosion rocked central Dhaka on Wednesday evening. At least one person was killed when a crude bomb was hurled near a veterans’ office. The attack occurred in the crowded Mogbazar area around 7 pm local time.

The incident raises serious security concerns. It happened just one day before a major political figure’s planned return to Bangladesh. Authorities have launched an immediate investigation.

Attack Targets Busy Flyover, Victim Identified

The bomb was thrown from a nearby flyover, according to police. Inspector Md Mohiuddin of Hatirjheel Police Station confirmed the details to The Daily Star. The victim was struck directly and died on the spot.

The deceased has been identified as Siam Majumder, a 21-year-old shop employee. He was having tea at a roadside stall when the bomb landed. His father demanded answers from the government for the loss of his son.

Police noted a major security lapse at the scene. Tejgaon Division Deputy Commissioner Ibne Mizan stated the flyover lights were off in that section. He also confirmed there were no CCTV cameras installed where the bomb was thrown from.

Political Tensions High Ahead of Pivotal Arrival

The blast comes amid a highly charged political moment. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is scheduled to return on Thursday. He has been in exile in London for nearly 17 years.

Rahman is seen as a leading contender in upcoming general elections. His return is anticipated to be a major political event. Security has been intensified across Dhaka in a “double-layer” cordon.

This violence follows other recent deadly incidents. A student leader was killed recently, sparking unrest. A separate mob killing also occurred in Dhaka days earlier.

This Dhaka bomb blast underscores the fragile security climate in Bangladesh’s capital. The tragic death highlights risks for ordinary citizens. The event casts a shadow over a crucial period in the nation’s politics.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Q1: What happened in Dhaka?

A crude bomb was thrown from a flyover in the Mogbazar area. It killed one person, a 21-year-old man, who was at a tea stall. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening.

Q2: Who was the victim?

The victim was Siam Majumder, a young private shop employee. He was having tea when the explosive device hit him. His father publicly questioned why such attacks target ordinary people.

Q3: Why is this timing significant?

The blast occurred a day before a major opposition leader’s return. Tarique Rahman of the BNP party is coming back after 17 years abroad. The event heightens security fears during a sensitive political period.

Q4: What has the police response been?

Police have launched a full investigation into the attack. They identified a security gap, noting dark areas and no CCTV on the flyover. Authorities were already on high alert for the political arrival.

Q5: Has there been other recent violence?

Yes, Bangladesh has seen several violent incidents recently. A student leader involved in past protests was killed last week. A separate mob killing also took place in Dhaka over alleged blasphemy.

Q6: What is the Muktijoddha Sangsad?

It is the central command office for veterans of Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War. The office is located in the Moghbazar area of Dhaka. The bomb was thrown outside its premises but was not directly targeted at the building.

Trusted Sources: The Daily Star, Hatirjheel Police Station, Tejgaon Division Deputy Commissioner