Attack on student protesters: AL leader Abdul Jabbar arrested from Dhaka's Kafrul

Abdul Jabbar, a local Awami League leader, was arrested by the Kafrul police on Thursday night in connection with an attack on students during the anti-discrimination movement.

The protest, largely led by student activists, turned violent when a group of Awami League supporters allegedly opened fire on the crowd.

Jahangir Kabir, assistant commissioner (media) of Dhaka Metropolitan Police, confirmed the matter on Friday.

The incident occurred on July 19, 2024, when Md Mubarak Hossain, one of the victims, was heading to his uncle’s house in Dhaka’s Senpara Parbata area. At the time, a peaceful demonstration against systemic discrimination was being held by student activists and local residents. During this gathering, Awami League leaders and their affiliates allegedly launched an unprovoked attack, opening fire on the protesters.

Mubarak was critically injured in the gunfire and was first taken to Islami Hospital in Pallabi. He was later transferred to the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedic Rehabilitation (Pangu Hospital) for specialised treatment.

Following the attack, Mubarak’s uncle, Md Rubel Hossain, filed a case at Kafrul Police Station on September 16. The complaint named 107 individuals and implicated another 150 unidentified people.

After reviewing CCTV footage from the area, police identified Abdul Jabbar as one of the key individuals involved in the violence.

Legal proceedings are now underway against Abdul Jabbar, confirmed Kafrul police.