Case started over attack on joint security forces in Ctg's Hazari Goli

The case involves charges of obstructing joint security forces and throwing acid at them

A case has been initiated following an attack on joint security forces in Chattogram's Hazari Goli, a Hindu-dominated area, after a Facebook post about a religious organisation sparked riots.

The case was registered on Wednesday night by Sub-Inspector Mizanur Rahman of Kotwali Police Station, implicating 49 people alongside 500-600 unidentified suspects.

The charges include obstructing security personnel from performing their duties and carrying out acid attacks, according to Fazlul Quader Chowdhury, chief of Kotwali Police Station.

Tareq Aziz, additional deputy commissioner (media) of Chattogram Metropolitan Police, said that 49 people have been arrested in connection with the case.

Of the 82 people initially detained by joint forces on Tuesday night, 33 were released after verification.

Tensions flared after Osman Molla, a shop owner at Hazari Goli Mia Shopping Centre, posted a ‘satirical’ comment targeting the Hindu organisation ISKCON on Facebook. The post drew the ire of the local Hindu community, who gathered outside Osman’s shop on Tuesday night.

When police attempted to take Osman into custody, the mob reportedly became agitated, and some allegedly chased the police.

The case report mentions that the crowd threw bricks at joint force members and even poured acid from above.

In response, law enforcers conducted an operation in Hazari Goli, detaining 82 individuals. Shops in the neighbourhood remained closed on Wednesday.