Police arrest 244 in crackdown on AL flashmobs

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) arrested 244 leaders and activists of the banned Awami League and its affiliated organisations on Wednesday, September 24, during a series of flashmob protests across the capital. Authorities also seized 14 improvised explosive devices – commonly referred to as “cocktails” – and seven banners from those detained. At a press briefing held at the DMP Media Centre on Minto Road, Additional Police Commissioner (Crime and Operations) SN Nazrul Islam stated that the flashmob participants were being financially supported, with funds originating both domestically and from abroad. He further alleged that Awami League members who had travelled from various districts to join the demonstrations were staying in flats belonging to fugitive party leaders. The arrests were...