Nine AL Activists Arrested Over Night-time Torch Procession in Savar

Police have arrested nine alleged activists of the Awami League over their reported involvement in a night-time torch procession in Savar, on the outskirts of Dhaka.

The arrests were made during a police operation near Salehpur Bridge in Aminbazar, beside the Dhaka–Aricha Highway, late on Friday night (31 July). Police also seized a digital banner, five torches and three motorcycles from the area during the operation.

Savar Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge Saiful Alam confirmed the arrests on Saturday afternoon. He said legal proceedings had been initiated against the detained individuals in connection with the torch procession and that they had been produced before a court with a three-day remand petition.

According to police, around 80 to 90 people, allegedly affiliated with the Awami League, were taking part in the procession along the Dhaka–Aricha Highway in the Aminbazar area late on Friday night. After receiving information about the gathering, police moved to the scene and launched an operation.

As soon as the participants became aware of the police presence, most of them reportedly dispersed and fled the area. Officers, however, managed to detain nine people at the scene.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Rakib Shikdar, 23; Mahibullah Al Sabbir, 31; Iqbal, 40; Samiul Islam, 19; Shafiqul Islam Khan Idris, 30; Ripon, 30; Ibrahim, 45; Waliur Rahman Shibli, 40; and Ramzan, 30.

Police said the five torches and digital banner were seized as items allegedly linked to the procession. Three motorcycles were also taken into custody. Officials said it had not immediately been established who owned the motorcycles or whether they belonged to any of those arrested.

The authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the procession, including its purpose, the identities of those who took part and whether other individuals were involved. Police are also attempting to identify those who reportedly left the scene before the operation could be completed.

The Dhaka–Aricha Highway is a major transport corridor connecting the capital with Savar, Ashulia and several parts of the country’s north-western region. The Aminbazar section, in particular, carries significant traffic, making it a strategically important part of the road network. Any large gathering or procession in the area, especially at night, can draw police attention because of potential concerns involving public safety and traffic movement.

Officer-in-Charge Saiful Alam said the nine people had been arrested while allegedly taking part in the torch procession and that they were sent to court after legal action was initiated against them. Police have sought a three-day remand for questioning.

The court is expected to decide on the remand request in accordance with the law. The precise allegations brought against the arrested individuals and whether the ongoing investigation produces further information are expected to become clearer as the legal process progresses.

The incident comes amid heightened scrutiny of political activities and public gatherings, with law enforcement agencies closely monitoring rallies and processions in sensitive areas. Police have not yet disclosed whether further arrests are expected, but the investigation into the procession and the people who allegedly participated in it remains ongoing.