Blast blows off cop’s wrists

Explosions by Jamaat-e-Islami’s student affiliate Chhatra Shibir activists blew off both wrists of a policeman and injured one of his colleagues during their clash with police in Rajshahi city on Sunday.

The Jamaat and Shibir supporters had taken out a procession in the city protesting the death of their men in Chapainawabganj during clashes with police on Friday, Boalia Model Police Station Officer in Charge Ziaur Rahman said.

The clash started as police tried to disperse the procession.

At least 15 handmade bombs were blasted during the half-an-hour clash between police and the Jamaat-Shibir activists that began near Ranibazar Madrasa market around 10:30am, he added.

“Police fired from shotguns and lobbed teargas shells to contain the mayhem.”

Probationary Sub-Inspector Makbul Hossain, 31, and a constable Rafiqul Islam, 25, were injured, Police Commissioner SM Moniruzzaman said. They were admitted to the Rajshahi Medical College and Hospital.

Makbul Hossain’s wrists were blown off, RMCH Orthopaedic Department chief Dr BK Dam said. Rafique’s arms were injured with splinters.

Makbul has been brought to Dhaka by a helicopter for treatment.