Look into whether ‘arson, terrorism by BNP-Jamaat’ behind recent fires: PM to authorities

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina  (April 15, 2023) asked concerned authorities to look into whether “arson, terrorism by BNP-Jamaat” is behind the recent fire incidents.

“It should be investigated whether they (BNP-Jamaat) are taking a different path by causing incidents like fire,” she said.

The prime minister said this while talking at the Awami League Local Government Nomination Board meeting held at her official residence Gana Bhaban.

She asked to investigate whether the recent spate of fire incidents in markets were part of a conspiracy or sabotage.

The PM said when the first fire incident occurred, everyone thought that it was an accident.

“…The fire incidents are occurring after 6am. Surveillance should be beefed up and markets have to remain alert,” she said.

“Everyone should be more aware. Everyone has to make arrangements on their own initiative to guard (their establishments). All efforts by the government will continue,” she said.

She said that observing the recent fire incidents raises questions whether these are plain accidents or there is some manipulation behind these.

“We know that some political parties want to wage a movement after Eid, cripple the economy, and oust the government. But what are the faults of the common people and businessmen?” – she asked.

She also said that unnecessary gathering at sites of fire incidents must not be allowed when fire fighters are trying to douse the blaze, and strict action will be taken in case of any obstruction regarding this matter.

“Why will they (fire fighters) face obstacles when they try to extinguish the fire? Some people attacked the fire fighters… Who are these people?” – the PM asked.

She said that businessmen were the worst sufferers as they have been waiting for the Eid season. She also urged the countrymen to remain alert.

Recalling the arson, terrorism by BNP-Jamaat in the recent past, she expressed her concerns and stressed on proper investigations.

“In the past, they burnt people, and now whether they have taken the path to cripple the economy needs to be looked into,” she said.