Garment workers blocked the Dhaka-Tangail highway in Gazipur’s Kaliakair area on Saturday, triggering severe traffic congestion and public suffering following rumours of a colleague’s death. The unrest, which began in the Chandra Palli Bidyut area, forced authorities to shut down several nearby factories as tensions escalated throughout the morning.

The protest stems from a demonstration held on Thursday, where workers clashed with law enforcement while demanding wage increases. During that incident, police fired tear gas and sound grenades to disperse the crowd, leaving several workers injured. The current agitation erupted after unverified reports circulated claiming that one of the injured workers had succumbed to their injuries.

Impact on commuters

Workers from at least seven to eight factories joined the blockade, bringing traffic to a complete standstill on both sides of the busy highway. Long-distance buses and freight trucks remained trapped for hours, leaving thousands of passengers, including women, children, and the elderly, stranded in the sweltering heat.

Official response

Gazipur Industrial Police, local police, and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) personnel have been deployed to the scene to restore order. Authorities are currently engaged in negotiations with the workers to clear the road while investigating the validity of the death claims.

Gazipur Police Superintendent Md. Amjad Hossain said, “We are currently verifying the reports regarding the alleged death of the worker. Our primary focus is to maintain law and order and resolve the situation through dialogue with the protesting workers.”

While the workers’ primary grievances remain focused on wage adjustments, the spread of misinformation has significantly disrupted industrial operations and public life. Officials have urged the workers to remain calm while the administration works to verify the facts and address their legitimate concerns.

Jashore District Detective Branch (DB) police recovered a foreign pistol, two magazines, and five rounds of ammunition during a raid on the residence of former Chhatra League leader Kazi Touhidur Rahman Jewel in the Shekhhati area on Tuesday. The operation, led by DB Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Mamunur Rashid, targeted the suspect’s two-story home and adjacent structures following a tip-off. Authorities discovered the weapons concealed beneath the roof of the kitchen.

While the suspect managed to evade capture during the raid, police apprehended his father, Kazi Alamgir. Officials confirmed that Alamgir was subsequently presented before the court in connection with a separate case involving a cocktail explosion at the Jashore court premises.

Criminal Background

Jewel remains a primary target for law enforcement due to his extensive criminal record. He currently faces 14 active cases, including charges of murder, extortion, drug trafficking, and possession of explosives. Police have intensified technological surveillance to track his current location and ensure his swift arrest.

Following the recovery of the illegal firearms, officers filed a new case against Jewel under the Arms Act at the Kotwali Model Police Station. Authorities stated that the operation serves as a stern warning to local criminal syndicates, reaffirming their commitment to bringing listed offenders to justice.

Jhikargachha Upazila Awami League General Secretary Musa Mahmud was arrested by the Detective Branch (DB) of police on Friday night on charges of engaging in anti-state activities and planning sabotage. The arrest took place in the Krishnanagar Boatghat area of Jashore, following which he was taken to the DB office for intensive interrogation. This development marks a significant shift in the local political landscape, given his long-standing influence and proximity to the previous administration.

Authorities confirmed that the arrest followed a preliminary investigation that uncovered substantial evidence linking the leader to subversive activities. Police are currently scrutinizing case files and records to determine the full extent of his involvement in recent unrest. Officials stated that the interrogation aims to dismantle his network and identify other individuals potentially involved in the alleged sabotage plots.

Political background and influence

During the tenure of the previous government, Musa Mahmud was widely recognized as a close associate of former Jashore-1 Member of Parliament Sheikh Afil Uddin. He maintained a dominant presence in local politics for years, often facing allegations of power abuse and various irregularities. His detention signals a new phase in the ongoing legal proceedings against high-ranking local Awami League leaders.

DB Sub-Inspector Abdullah Al Azad said, “Preliminary investigations have provided strong evidence of his involvement in anti-state activities. We are currently questioning him to gather detailed information regarding his network and future sabotage plans.”

The arrest has triggered widespread discussion among local residents, as Mahmud held significant sway over Jhikargachha’s political affairs for an extended period. Law enforcement officials are now verifying the exact number of cases filed against him before proceeding with formal court appearances. The outcome of these interrogations is expected to have a lasting impact on the political stability and law and order situation in the Jashore region.