Army forced to use force in self-defense: ISPR

The army was left with no option but to use force in self-defense, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Thursday (July 17) via its official Facebook page.

The statement confirmed that despite repeated warnings over loudspeakers, the army was attacked with homemade bombs (cocktails) and brickbats, prompting them to use force in self-defense. Joint forces from the army, BGB, and police eventually dispersed the rioters. Under army supervision, individuals who had sought refuge in the Superintendent of Police's office were safely relocated to Khulna.

The unrest began on Wednesday during a political rally in Sadar Upazila, organized as part of a political party's "July March." According to ISPR, a group of unruly individuals engaged in violent acts, injuring several police personnel and journalists, and vandalizing and setting fire to government installations and vehicles.

As the situation escalated, the Bangladesh Army and local police intervened, initially managing to bring the violence under control. However, violence erupted again during the rally when the stage was attacked and the Gopalganj district jail came under assault, resulting in significant vandalism.

The overall security situation in Gopalganj district has returned to normal. A curfew imposed by the local administration remains in effect, and law enforcement agencies, including the Bangladesh Army, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), police, and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), are working in close coordination to maintain law and order.

ISPR praised the people of Gopalganj for their patience and cooperation during the unrest and urged citizens to remain calm and avoid being misled by rumors or misinformation.

"The Bangladesh Army is always committed to protecting the country's sovereignty and ensuring public safety," the statement added.