BNP leader killed in bomb attack in Benapole

A local BNP leader and active member of the Dubpara Ward Committee, was killed in a targeted cocktail bomb attack on Saturday night (June 7) in Dubpara village, Benapole, Jashore.

The deceased, Abdul Hai, son of Amir Ali, was critically injured and rushed to Sharsha Upazila Health Complex by locals. However, doctors declared him dead upon arrival.

According to eyewitnesses and party sources, the incident took place around 9.00pm near the Milon tea shop at Jamtala. Four assailants riding two motorcycles, allegedly led by a man named Sayeed, launched a sudden attack on Abdul Hai, detonating four homemade bombs in succession.

The attack appears to be linked to escalating tensions in the village following a dispute earlier that morning. Local sources said that a confrontation broke out when Awami League supporters arrived at the Eidgah ground to offer Eid prayers, reportedly after seeking permission from BNP leaders. A verbal altercation followed between supporters of both parties, during which Abdul Hai reportedly urged calm, telling his fellow BNP activists to allow Eid prayers to proceed peacefully.

According to residents, the morning clash soon escalated into infighting within BNP ranks, eventually leading to the fatal attack on Abdul Hai.

Bahadurpur Union BNP General Secretary Rabiul Islam Robi confirmed the involvement of four attackers and described the incident as a planned assassination. “This was a targeted killing. Abdul Hai stood for peace and was attacked for opposing violence,” he said.

Sharsha Upazila BNP President Abul Hasan Zahir condemned the attack, calling it a “brutal act of terrorism” and demanded immediate arrest and exemplary punishment for those responsible.

Rasel Mia, officer-in-charge (OC) of Benapole Port Police Station, confirmed the incident.

“Police forces have been deployed in the area. The operation to arrest the attackers is ongoing. The body has been recovered and legal proceedings are underway,” he said.