The death toll from an arson attack by unidentified men at a hotel in Jessore has risen to 24.
Khulna Fire Service and Civil Defense Control Room Chief Abdul Qadir confirmed the information, reports the Daily Star.
"Most of the people died from smoke suffocation. We managed to rescue 25-30 people," said the official.
The hotel was owned by Shahin Chakladar, general secretary of the Jessore district Awami League.
The hotel was set on fire around 4pm and the fire was doused at 8pm.
Among the victims, there was an Indonesian citizen, reports Prothom Alo.
Some bodies were recovered from the liquor bar on the third floor of the hotel.
Some witnesses said that some people got trapped there and died during the looting.
Two of the deceased were identified as Chayan, 20, and Sejan Hossain, 19.
The Resident Medical Officer (RMO) of Jessore General Hospital Dr Partho Pratim Chakraborty said that more than 150 patients were admitted to the hospital due to the fire incident.
Thousands of people were celebrating the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at various points in the town.
During the celebrations, some individuals set fire to Jabir Hotel in the Chittarmore area and vandalized its furniture.
Additionally, the district Awami League office and the houses of three more Awami League leaders in Sharsha and Benapole areas were attacked by vandals.