Dhaka: A case has been filed against 400 to 500 unidentified individuals following an attack on the Prothom Alo office located in Karwan Bazar. The incident involved vandalism, looting, and arson and was recorded at Tejgaon Police Station around 12:10 am on Monday under the Anti-Terrorism Act, the Special Powers Act, and the Cyber Security Ordinance.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the attack occurred late on Thursday night. The assailants allegedly forced entry into the Prothom Alo office, causing significant damage by vandalizing property, stealing valuables, and setting parts of the building on fire. The case details suggest that the attack aimed to intimidate staff, disrupt operations, and prevent the publication of the newspaper.
The allegations further include attempts to destroy evidence, acts of sabotage, and the use of online platforms to coordinate the criminal activities. Prothom Alo reported that the value of the looted property is approximately Tk 2.50 crore, while the total damage from the vandalism and arson is estimated at about Tk 32 crore.
Seventeen people have been arrested so far, out of 31 individuals initially identified as involved in the attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo, The Daily Star, and two cultural organizations. Additional Police Commissioner (Crime and Operations) of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police, SN Md Nazrul Islam, shared this information during a press briefing at the DMP Media Center on Mintoo Road. He emphasized the police’s dedication to safeguarding media institutions and ensuring those responsible for the attacks face justice.