Bomb-like objects have reportedly been found at the main entrances of two educational institutions in the Pallabi area of Mirpur, Dhaka, prompting concern among local residents. Two such objects were found hanging in a plastic bag at the main gate of Siddique Memorial Junior School and College, while another bomb-like object was reportedly discovered at Balughat School.
The objects were allegedly left at the institutions by unidentified individuals around midnight on Sunday, 15 November.
The incidents have caused anxiety in the surrounding neighbourhoods, with residents concerned about the safety of students, teachers and others who visit the schools. However, it has not yet been established whether the objects are genuine explosives or merely items designed to resemble bombs.
According to local sources, two objects were found suspended in a plastic bag at the main entrance of Siddique Memorial Junior School and College in Pallabi. Initial accounts suggest that a group of young men arrived at the site late at night and left the objects there before leaving. Their identities and motives remain unknown.
A separate report indicated that a similar object had been placed at Balughat School. Details about the exact location of the object within the school premises, its appearance and who may have left it there were not immediately available.
There is speculation that the incidents may have been intended to spread fear among the public or create disorder in the area. However, no motive has been confirmed, and it remains unclear whether the two incidents are connected.
The discovery of suspicious objects at school entrances is a matter of particular concern because educational institutions are places regularly visited by children, parents, teachers and other members of the community. Until the nature of the objects is established, their presence is likely to cause uncertainty among those living and working nearby.
Assistant Sub-Inspector Mohammad Rifat, the duty officer at Pallabi Police Station, said officers had been sent to the scene to verify the reports.
“We have sent police to the location to establish the facts. Without visiting the scene, it is not possible to confirm the precise location of the incident or determine what kind of objects have been placed in the plastic bag,” he said.
Police had not immediately confirmed whether the objects contained explosive materials, nor had they identified anyone suspected of placing them at the schools. No information about injuries or an explosion was reported in the initial account.
The circumstances surrounding both incidents, including the identity of those responsible and whether the objects were intended to cause harm or merely create panic, remain unclear. Further information is expected once police have inspected the locations and established the nature of the suspicious items.
