An incident of arson has shaken the local community after miscreants set fire to a branch of Grameen Bank in Feni’s Sorshadi Bazar during the early hours of the morning. The targeted attack, carried out under the cover of darkness, resulted in the destruction of three motorcycles and several pieces of furniture kept inside the bank premises, raising serious concerns about security at financial institutions in semi-urban areas.
According to initial reports, the incident took place at approximately 3:30 am on Thursday, 18 December. Unidentified individuals allegedly poured petrol from outside the main gate of the Grameen Bank’s Sorshadi Bazar branch and set it alight. The sudden blaze quickly spread to items stored just inside the entrance, causing visible damage before it could be brought under control.
The branch manager, Ashok Kumar Debnath, provided details of the incident, stating that the perpetrators had scaled the boundary wall to gain access to the bank compound. Rather than entering the building, they reportedly ignited the fire from outside the main gate of the bank’s primary structure, suggesting a deliberate and calculated act intended to cause damage while avoiding direct confrontation.
The situation might have escalated further had it not been for the prompt action of the night guard. At around 3:40 am, the guard noticed signs of fire and immediately raised the alarm. With the help of local residents who rushed to the scene upon hearing his calls, initial efforts were made to control the flames. Their swift response helped prevent the fire from spreading deeper into the building, potentially saving important documents and equipment.
Shortly after, a team from the Fire Service arrived at the scene and fully extinguished the blaze. Despite their efforts, three motorcycles parked inside the gate and two wooden benches were completely burned. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, and the main structure of the bank escaped major damage.
Police from Feni Model Police Station also arrived at the scene soon after receiving the report. Inspector (Investigation) Sajal Kanti Das confirmed that law enforcement officers conducted an on-site inspection and collected preliminary information. He stated that the bank authorities are in the process of filing a written complaint, after which a formal investigation will be launched. Necessary legal action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry, he assured.
The motive behind the arson remains unclear, and authorities have not yet identified any suspects. Local residents have expressed concern and anxiety following the incident, calling for increased security measures around key institutions, particularly banks that handle public savings and financial transactions.
Grameen Bank officials have indicated that an assessment of the damage is underway and that steps will be taken to resume normal operations as quickly as possible. Meanwhile, the incident has highlighted the vulnerability of public institutions during late-night hours and the urgent need for improved surveillance and security arrangements to prevent similar attacks in the future.