BPSA condemns attack on police station

Bangladesh Police Service Association has expressed its strong condemnation and deep concern over the attack, vandalism and attack on police personnel on duty at Agailjhara Police Station in Barisal over rumors of an accused's death.

In a press release signed by the organization's general secretary and Dhaka district police superintendent Shamima Parveen on Friday, the incident was described as a manifestation of the new 'mob culture' emerging in the country.

The release said that on the evening of July 8, Riaz Fakir, 26, an accused in a theft case, was arrested and taken to Agailjhara Police Station. It is claimed that Riaz, a drug addict, hit himself on the head in the police station and injured himself. Later, he was first sent to the Upazila Health Complex and later to Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital in Barisal for advanced treatment.

The next day, on July 9, a group of people attacked and vandalized Agailjhara Police Station when rumors of Riaz's death spread. At that time, police personnel on duty were also attacked.

The Police Service Association said that such attacks based on rumors are not only a threat to law and order, but also a serious threat to state institutions, judicial process and public safety. The organization claimed that some vested interests are trying to tarnish the image of the government by deteriorating the law and order situation.

The notice called on the citizens of the country not to be misled by rumors but to rely on verified information, to respect the law and to cooperate in maintaining peace and order in the society.