Several injured as protest outside Islami Bank Head Office turns into clash

Tensions erupted in Dhaka’s Motijheel area as police used baton charge, tear gas and water cannons to disperse protesters demanding the resignation of the newly appointed chairman of Islami Bank.

Members of the Islami Bank Customers’ Forum gathered in front of the bank’s head office early in the morning (June 1), carrying banners and chanting slogans calling for the chairman’s removal.

Eyewitnesses said police moved in around 9:30am to clear the demonstrators, triggering a confrontation. Authorities reportedly used batons, tear gas shells and sound grenades to disperse the crowd, causing panic in the area.

Several protesters were injured in the incident, according to witnesses.

The protesters alleged that law enforcement used excessive force against what they described as a peaceful demonstration. 

The protesters said they could not accept the appointment of the bank’s new chairman, expressing concern that it could lead to a recurrence of past irregularities and controversies.

The added that their demonstration was being held to voice these concerns.

Following the clashes, additional police personnel were deployed and security was tightened around the bank’s headquarters and surrounding areas.

Authorities have not immediately issued an official statement regarding the incident or reported injuries.