A catastrophic explosion at an illegal cocktail manufacturing facility in Chapainawabganj Sadar’s Char Bagdanga Union claimed two lives and injured three others in the early hours of Saturday, 14 February. The blast, which occurred at approximately 5:00 am local time, sent shockwaves through the local community and prompted an immediate administrative response.
Local police and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) swiftly arrived at the scene, bringing the situation under control and securing the area. Preliminary investigations suggest that the explosion happened during the preparation of homemade explosives, commonly referred to as “cocktails.” Authorities are currently examining the exact cause and collecting evidence to support a comprehensive inquiry.
Chapainawabganj Superintendent of Police, Gautam Kumar Biswas, stated, “The bodies of the two deceased were found at the site. Both showed severe burn injuries, and parts of their hands were partially severed. The injured have been transferred promptly to the local hospital.”
Deputy Inspector General of Police for the Rajshahi Range, Mohammad Shahjahan, added, “Preliminary information indicates that the deceased were directly involved in the production of these cocktails. It appears that one or multiple explosives detonated simultaneously. CID officers are conducting forensic collection and attempting to confirm the identities of both the deceased and the injured.”
Eyewitnesses described the explosion as extraordinarily loud, causing panic in surrounding areas. Police have cordoned off the location to maintain security while collecting debris and evidence. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and avoid handling any unidentified or illegal explosive materials.
Victims of the Explosion
| S/N | Identity | Status | Location | Hospital Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Unknown 1 | Deceased | Scene | – |
| 2 | Unknown 2 | Deceased | Scene | – |
| 3 | Unknown 3 | Injured | Local area | Chapainawabganj Sadar Hospital |
| 4 | Unknown 4 | Injured | Local area | Chapainawabganj Sadar Hospital |
| 5 | Unknown 5 | Injured | Local area | Chapainawabganj Sadar Hospital |
The administration has emphasised that the precise cause of the blast remains under investigation. Local authorities have advised residents to exercise caution and refrain from touching any unverified explosive substances.
This tragic incident has cast a shadow of grief over Chapainawabganj, with district officials pledging financial and humanitarian support for the bereaved families. Medical and psychological assistance for the injured is being coordinated with local hospitals and health authorities.
Preliminary assessments suggest the explosion was accidental, resulting from unsafe handling during cocktail production. Police and CID continue to investigate and will pursue appropriate legal action based on their findings.