In the aftermath of the murder of lawyer Saiful Islam Alif during violent clashes instigated by followers of former ISKCON leader and spokesperson of the Sanatan Sammilito Jagoron Jote, Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, joint forces have detained 30 individuals.
The arrests were made during overnight raids conducted on Tuesday (26 November), said Chattogram Metropolitan Police Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Kazi Md Tarek Aziz.
"The detained individuals are being scrutinised, and further actions will be taken based on the findings," he stated.
Two separate cases are being prepared in connection with the Tuesday incidents, ADC Aziz said.
One relates to the attack on police personnel and the vandalism that ensued, while the other pertains to the murder of lawyer Saiful.
"Once the detainees are vetted, they will be officially charged in these cases," he added.
The unrest began earlier on Tuesday when Chinmoy's bail plea was rejected by a Chattogram Metropolitan Magistrate Court.
Following the ruling, his legal team submitted a petition seeking bail at the District and Sessions Judge’s Court.
The rejection provoked Chinmoy’s followers to block a police van and wreak havoc in the court premises.
Law enforcement responded with tear gas to disperse the mob, but the situation escalated. The enraged followers attacked police officers and carried out widespread vandalism in the surrounding areas.
During the melee, they fatally attacked lawyer Saiful Islam Alif before fleeing the scene.
Wednesday’s scheduled hearing at the Sessions Court on Chinmoy’s bail plea may face delays as lawyers announced a boycott of court proceedings, demanding justice for the slain lawyer.
Saiful Islam Alif's funeral on Tuesday witnessed a large turnout, reflecting public outrage over the incident.
