The protestors stormed the gates of Ganabhaban, the Prime Minister’s official residence, waving Bangladesh flags. Social media visuals showed protestors inside the residence, stealing items such as rugs and utensils. Some were seen sitting on tables inside offices, taking pictures, and rummaging through files and documents.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in power since 2009, had ignored calls for her resignation for weeks. She was forced to flee after a particularly violent day of unrest on Sunday. Nearly 100 people lost their lives, including 14 police officers, in clashes between protestors and government supporters. The total death toll since the unrest began in early July has reached at least 300, according to an AFP tally that includes information from police, government officials, and hospital doctors.
An AFP source close to the 76-year-old leader informed that Hasina initially left her palace by motorcade after protestors stormed the building. The source further added, “She was later evacuated on a helicopter,” without specifying her destination.
On the deadliest day of the unrest, at least 94 people were killed. Protestors and government supporters clashed violently across the country using sticks and knives, while security forces opened fire. The turmoil has spread, resulting in significant casualties and property damage.
The Bangladeshi military has a history of intervening during political unrest in the country. An official statement from Waker mentioned, “The military always stood by the people.” In January 2007, the military declared an emergency and installed a military-backed caretaker government, which remained in power for two years.As unrest continues to escalate, the situation remains tense, with the location and safety of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina still unknown.
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