Dozens of crude bombs have exploded and passenger vehicles have been set on fire across Bangladesh over the past three days, resulting in one death and injuries, according to authorities and media reports on Tuesday. These violent incidents occurred as reports emerged about the ousted former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, planning a return from exile next month, though any direct link remains unconfirmed.
Police spokesman Mohammad Akhtar Hossain stated that at least 33 people were arrested on Monday in Dhaka, with further arrests made elsewhere. He indicated that a banned group was responsible for the attacks but did not specify which one. In Manikganj, near Dhaka, about 15 crude bombs detonated early Tuesday, and a driver was killed when a bus was set ablaze. In Dhaka, crude bombs were detonated over the three days, including on the Dhaka University campus and at a court, injuring two people. Several vehicles were also torched.
Seven crude bombs and two motorcycles used in the attacks were seized. Security has been heightened throughout the city. The ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party accused followers of Hasina of orchestrating the violence to destabilize the nation. Hossain noted that individuals involved were linked to a banned organization or its affiliates, and some were paid to carry out the acts.
Sheikh Hasina has been in India since August 5, 2024, after fleeing the country following a student-led uprising that ended her 15-year rule. She was sentenced to death in 2025 by a special tribunal for ordering a crackdown on protesters. Hasina has requested a new passport for her return from exile in December, despite her death sentence. Her legal counsel has urged the Bangladesh diplomatic mission in New Delhi to facilitate the issuance of a passport and national identity card. However, the government of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman dismissed her emailed request as a mockery, stating she must apply in person.
