Law enforcement officers in the capital have apprehended seven individuals, including four minors, for allegedly attempting to organise an unauthorized late-night torch procession and carry out disruptive activities in Dhaka’s Banani area.
According to officials from Banani Police Station under the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), the raid took place at approximately 12:20 am on Friday (7 August), corresponding to midnight on Thursday. The operation was executed on the outgoing lane of the Dhaka-Mymensingh Highway, directly opposite the Army Stadium.
Police intelligence indicates that a group of around 100 to 120 individuals affiliated with the banned Awami League and its associate organisations had assembled near the site, marching from the Sainik Club area towards the Army Stadium. Armed with torches, banners, and face coverings, the group reportedly gathered with the intent of conducting a rapid, unsanctioned demonstration—commonly referred to as a “flash procession”—and instigating potential acts of sabotage.
Upon receiving timely information regarding the gathering, an operational team from Banani Police Station rushed to the spot. While a majority of the demonstrators managed to disperse and flee into nearby alleys under cover of darkness, police successfully intercepted and detained seven key suspects on the scene.
The adult detainees have been identified as Md. Arif (19), Md. Shakil Ahmed (19), and Ashik Ahmed Mostafa (19). The remaining four individuals taken into custody are juveniles who are currently being treated under the legal framework applicable to children in conflict with the law.
During the search operation, police seized a substantial quantity of materials intended for the demonstration, including 70 torches, a large banner, and 77 face masks designed to conceal the identity of participants.
Authorities confirmed that legal proceedings are currently underway against the seven detained individuals as well as the principal organisers who planned the unsanctioned gathering. Security has been heightened across major thoroughfares in Banani and adjacent zones to prevent further attempts at nocturnal disruption.
