Local government adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan has expressed satisfaction with the role of law enforcement agencies during the recent violence in Gopalganj surrounding the NCP’s program.
“I believe the law enforcement agencies performed well based on what I have seen. They successfully evacuated everyone from the area,” he said.
He also expressed hope that under the leadership of the Ministry of Home Affairs, those responsible for the attacks—including those armed with weapons—will be arrested.
Asif Mahmud made these remarks on Thursday after a workshop organized by BIDA, responding to questions from journalists.
On Wednesday, Gopalganj turned into a battleground following repeated clashes between banned Awami League activists and law enforcement during an NCP rally.
At least four people were killed in the five-hour-long violence. NCP central leaders trapped inside the police superintendent’s office later left Gopalganj in army armored vehicles.
NCP convener Nahid Islam commented that the situation could have been less severe if the administration and intelligence agencies had taken appropriate measures in time.
Regarding the violence, Asif Mahmud said, “We have noticed that terrorists from across the country had taken shelter there (Gopalganj), and yesterday a disgraceful incident occurred. We never expected this. We want political activities to proceed peacefully... the people of Bangladesh are peace-loving and we expect political affairs to be conducted peacefully.”
On Wednesday evening, Asif Mahmud’s Facebook page posted images from the police control room, noting that he, the Home Adviser, and law enforcement chiefs were providing necessary directives to manage the situation.
When asked about how many arrests had been made, Asif Mahmud said, “The Home Ministry is working on it. If you ask them, you will get detailed answers.”
NCP leader Nahid Islam gave a 24-hour deadline for arresting those responsible for the Gopalganj attacks.
When asked for comments, Asif Mahmud responded, “You should ask the Ministry of Home Affairs about this. It will be difficult if the concerned ministry is not asked.”
Many social media users opined that the conflict could have been avoided if the NCP had not held the event in Gopalganj.
Asked about this, Asif Mahmud said, “That’s not my area; it would be better to ask the NCP.”
