Attacks and Vandalism at Prothom Alo Offices in Three Districts Outside Dhaka

In a series of coordinated attacks across the country, the offices of Prothom Alo in three districts outside Dhaka were vandalized by armed assailants. The incidents occurred late Thursday night, with the offices in Kushtia, Khulna, and Sylhet bearing the brunt of the attacks, while attempts were made to assault offices in Chattogram and Bogura as well.

In Kushtia, the attackers broke into the office and destroyed furniture, file cabinets, and signage. CCTV footage revealed that a group of assailants armed with sticks climbed the stairs of the building and started their rampage. They broke the office sign, damaged flower pots, and entered the premises, causing widespread destruction. The Prothom Alo office in Khulna was similarly targeted, with vandals removing signs and setting fire to them. In Sylhet, a group threw bricks at the office, smashing windows, although no one was present at the time.

While the attacks did not result in casualties, the offices suffered significant damage. No Prothom Alo employees were present during the assaults. In response, local journalists and members of the press clubs across the affected regions expressed their outrage, condemning the violence.

In Kushtia, the police chief assured that an investigation was underway to identify the perpetrators, and efforts to tighten security around the affected offices were immediately implemented. Local media workers gathered at the scene to show solidarity and demand justice.

The attacks also saw incidents in Chattogram and Bogura, where police successfully thwarted further attempts to harm the offices, thanks to vigilant security measures. In both cities, police and military patrols were intensified to prevent further escalation.

These events have sparked a wave of protests and condemnations from media organizations and journalists who have vowed to continue their work despite the threats.