Unknown attackers set fire to Hanif Flyover toll plaza in Dhaka's Jatrabari on Wednesday (17 July) night.
It was unclear if the incident was linked with quota reformation protest.
Earlier in the day protesters demanding quota reforms clashed with police and ruling party activists in the Jatrabari area for nearly five hours.
Agitating students denied any involvement in setting fire to the toll plaza.
Police, along with members of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), were deployed to the scene. Clashes continued in waves, with protesters hurling bricks and stones at law enforcement officers. Earlier in the day, four individuals were injured by gunfire, leaving Siam, 24, dead.
The injured are currently receiving treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital.
On Wednesday evening, protesters gathered at the mouth of the Hanif Flyover’s toll plaza, burning tires in protest. Police intervention escalated the situation into violent clashes. Members of the Awami League and Jubo League joined forces with the police to push back the demonstrators. Reports indicate that four people have been shot in connection with the incident so far.
The atmosphere in the area remains tense. Protesters have taken positions near Shonir Akhra, while members of the Jubo League, Chhatra League, and police maintain a heavy presence. Armored police vehicles, along with RAB members, are monitoring the movements of the quota reform protesters along the Jatrabari road.
At around 6:30 pm, six individuals were injured in clashes between police and quota reform demonstrators. The injured include Babu Mia (50) and his son Rohit Mia (2), Md. Faisal (18), Monirul Islam (20), Piyas (17), and Md. Sohag Mia (27). Faisal's condition is critical, according to medical personnel.
Tanzil, who brought Faisal to DMCH, said, "Four of us were walking on the road. Suddenly, four people, including Faisal, were shot. Later, they were rescued and brought to DMCH Hospital. Faisal has been admitted to the hospital. Doctors said his condition was critical.”
Lipi Akhter, who brought the bullet-hit father and son to DMCH, said they were sitting on the ground floor of a house next to Shanir Akhra Bornomala School. At that time, bullets came through the window and shot her son and husband.
With UNB inputs
