Attack at Mirpur Shrine of Hazrat Shah Ali (RA), police say anti-drug drive

A group of individuals has allegedly carried out an attack at the shrine of Hazrat Shah Ali (RA) in the Mirpur area of Dhaka, triggering concern and conflicting accounts over the incident.

Videos circulating on social media on Thursday night (May 14) show a group entering the shrine premises carrying sticks and allegedly assaulting devotees and visitors before forcing them out.

According to eyewitnesses and local sources, around 70–80 people suddenly entered the shrine complex armed with sticks and pipes. They reportedly attacked those present and later drove them out of the area.

The footage, which quickly went viral online, shows people being beaten and expelled from the shrine premises, triggering widespread concern and criticism.

However, police have denied any incident of “attack,” stating instead that it was an anti-drug operation carried out by local activists.

Jahangir Alam, officer-in-charge (OC) of Shah Ali Police Station, said, "Such no attack took place. Some outsiders were found consuming drugs near the shrine and were subsequently removed as part of an anti-drug drive."

He added that no formal complaint has been filed so far, but assured that legal action would be taken if any complaint is lodged.

Assistant Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police Darus Salam Zone, Emad Hossain, also echoed the same position, saying local leaders and activists conducted an anti-drug campaign at the shrine area.

He further claimed that similar drives had previously been carried out under local political initiatives to curb drug-related activities in the area.

Authorities said no official complaint has yet been received, while the incident continues to draw attention amid conflicting narratives from witnesses and law enforcement.