Clashes, vandalism and arson broke out in the capital’s Mirpur-10 area on Wednesday afternoon during a drive to clear footpaths of encroachment.
A vehicle of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) was reportedly set on fire, while a police vehicle and an excavator used in the drive were also vandalized.
Md Shahidul Islam, duty officer at Mirpur Model Police Station, confirmed the incident and said law enforcement personnel were working to bring the situation under control.
Drive to clear footpaths
Police said hawkers had long occupied footpaths in the Mirpur-10 area, operating temporary shops and businesses.
The city corporation launched the drive to remove the encroachments. At the start of the operation, an argument broke out between hawkers and city corporation workers, eventually leading to clashes and counter-chases.
Vandalism and arson were reported at several locations during the unrest.
City corporation vehicle set on fire
Witnesses said a city corporation vehicle was set on fire during the clash. A police vehicle and an excavator used in the eviction drive were also reportedly vandalized.
Initial information suggested that a fire first broke out at one location due to an electrical short circuit while the drive was under way. Later, some agitated hawkers allegedly set fire to a city corporation garbage truck.
Fire Service brings blaze under control
Two Fire Service units responded to the incident and brought the blaze under control.
Additional police were deployed in the area following the incident, with law enforcement personnel remaining on alert to maintain public safety and traffic movement.
The drive was part of the city corporation’s regular efforts to clear footpaths of encroachment, officials said.
Police said those involved in the incident would be investigated and necessary action taken.