A tense confrontation erupted between mobile phone traders and the police in Hatirpool, Dhaka, on Sunday, as traders staged a protest against government policies. The altercation, which involved running skirmishes, baton charges, tear gas, and sound grenades, occurred between 1:30 pm and 2:00 pm, leaving the area in chaos and several traders briefly detained.
The unrest began around 10:30 am at the Sirk Fountain intersection in Karwan Bazar, where mobile phone shop owners organised a sit-in demonstration, obstructing traffic. The traders, representing the Mobile Business Community Bangladesh (MBCB), demanded the suspension of the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) programme, the release of individuals arrested in yesterday’s attack on the BTRC office, and greater protection of their commercial interests. As the protest intensified, participants marched through the streets, chanting slogans and blocking main thoroughfares.
By 11:30 am, police intervened, attempting to disperse the protesters with baton charges. Despite this, the traders returned to the streets at noon, prompting authorities to escalate their response with water cannons, tear gas, and sound grenades. Several participants were briefly detained during these dispersals.
The situation further escalated around 1:30 pm when traders attempted to march from Motaleb Plaza towards Sirk Fountain. Police obstruction led to chaotic pursuits and skirmishes, during which some traders set fires on the road and threw bricks. Eyewitnesses reported that law enforcement officers chased the protesters through nearby alleys, continuing the use of batons and tear gas in an effort to regain control.
By 2:00 pm, authorities had not fully restored order, and sporadic clashes were still ongoing. MBCB had previously announced that all mobile shops across the country would remain closed indefinitely in solidarity with the protest.
A summary of key events and law enforcement responses is provided below:
| Time | Event | Police Measures | Traders’ Actions | Arrests |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:30–11:00 am | Sirk Fountain intersection blocked | Baton charge | Road blockade, chanting slogans | 0 |
| 12:00–12:30 pm | Reoccupation of streets | Water cannon, baton charge, sound grenade | Sit-in resumed, slogans | 2–3 |
| 13:30–14:00 pm | March from Motaleb Plaza, pursuit | Tear gas, baton charge, sound grenade | Fires set, bricks thrown at police | 5–7 |
Local authorities continue to monitor the situation, while traders maintain that their demands remain unmet, signalling potential further disruptions in Dhaka’s central commercial areas.