14 Arrested for Looting Shoes in Name of Palestinian Solidarity

Local Correspondent

Sylhet Metropolitan Police arrested 14 individuals overnight following attacks, vandalism, and looting at several shops and restaurants by people claiming solidarity with Palestine after an anti-Israel protest.

Sylhet Kotwali Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md. Ziaul Haque confirmed the arrests on Tuesday morning (April 8).

The arrested are: Md. Rajan, Emon (19), Md. Rakib (19), Md. Abdul Motalab (35), Mijan Ahmed (30), Sabir Ahmed (19), Junaid Ahmed (19), Md. Robin Mia (20), Syed Al Amin Tushar (29), Mostakin Ahmed Tuhin (19), Md. Delwar Hossain (30), Md. Riyad (24), Md. Tuhin (24), and Al Nafiu (19).

OC Ziaul Haque stated, “After yesterday’s anti-Israel protest, some people attacked, vandalized, and looted various establishments. They stole numerous shoes from Bata outlets. Later, advertisements selling these items were posted on various Facebook IDs and pages. Based on these posts, we conducted overnight raids and arrested them along with the stolen shoes.”

Legal action will be taken against the detainees under existing laws.

Background: On Monday, protests against Israeli attacks in Palestine were held across Bangladesh, including Sylhet. Exploiting the protests, vandals targeted Bata showrooms in Dargah Gate, Chowhatta, Mirbax Tula, Zindabazar, and other areas of Sylhet city. KFC, Domino’s Pizza, and other establishments were also attacked.

Following the incidents, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam on Monday night directed police officials to swiftly arrest those responsible for vandalizing shops and businesses in Sylhet and other cities.