Petrol Bomb Attack on BNP Rebel Supporter’s Home

In Nariail Sadar Upazila, a violent incident occurred on Monday night when petrol bombs were allegedly thrown at the residence of a Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader, resulting in a fire that destroyed property in two rooms. Fortunately, no one was injured. The incident took place in Bil-Dumurtola village of Hobkhali Union.

The targeted leader, Humayun Molya, serves as the president of the Hobkhali Union BNP. Local sources indicate that Humayun is a supporter of the recently expelled district BNP general secretary and the ‘rebel’ candidate Monirul Islam, contesting from Nariail-2 (Sadar and Lohagara constituencies).

His local political rival, Riazul Islam, former president of the Union BNP, backed candidate Fariduzzaman Farhad. Both Humayun and Riazul were unsuccessful in the recent elections. Tensions between the two factions had been rising since the polls, culminating in clashes at Bagdanga Bus Stand on Monday evening and night. At least six people from both sides sustained injuries during these confrontations.

According to Humayun’s family, at approximately 1:00 a.m., following the clashes, supporters of Riazul allegedly threw petrol bombs at a room on the northern side of Humayun’s house. The family awoke to a loud explosion and discovered flames engulfing two rooms. Neighbours rushed to extinguish the fire before the Fire Service arrived.

Humayun’s sister, Rulika Begum, stated:
“The neighbours quickly intervened after hearing our cries and managed to control the fire. We believe the act was carried out by our political rivals.”

Riazul Islam, however, denied involvement, claiming:
“A police vehicle was parked near the scene just half an hour before the fire. How or who started the fire remains unclear. It appears to be a conspiracy rather than a spontaneous event.”

Meanwhile, the Officer-in-Charge of Nariail Sadar Police, Oli Mia, described reports of the petrol bomb as “rumours” and confirmed that an investigation into the origin of the fire and those responsible is underway. Additionally, a case has been filed regarding Monday’s clashes, and efforts are ongoing to arrest the accused individuals.

The sequence of recent incidents in the area can be summarised as follows:

The incident has heightened political tensions in Hobkhali Union. Law enforcement and fire services continue to investigate, attempting to maintain peace and order in the area.