66 arrested over vandalism, looting

FE REPORT

As many as 66 people have been arrested for their alleged involvement in vandalism and looting during Monday's protests in Bangladesh against the Israeli offensive in Palestine.

The Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser provided the information while addressing a press briefing on the second day of the Bangladesh Investment Summit organised by the BIDA at a city hotel on Tuesday.

"The government is handling the issue strictly and the culprits will face due punishment," he said.

Monday's demonstrations were part of the global "No Work, No School" campaign, protesting against Israel's military offensive in Gaza.

Thousands of protesters  joined rallies, strikes and processions in solidarity with Palestinians.

However, violence erupted in several districts, with protesters targeting international brands, including KFC, Pizza Hut and Bata, accusing them of selling "Israeli products".

The stores stocking beverages like Coca-Cola and Pepsi also came under attack.

More than one dozen of businesses were vandalised in Cox's Bazar, Chattogram, Sylhet, Gazipur, Cumilla and Bogura. No casualties were reported.

tonmoy.wardad@gmail.com