Gopalganj, July 16, (V7N) — In the wake of escalating violence following an attack on the convoy of National Citizens Party (NCP) leaders, the Gopalganj district administration has imposed Section 144 across the area to prevent further unrest.

The decision was announced by an executive magistrate on behalf of Deputy Commissioner Md. Kamruzzaman on Wednesday afternoon, after the situation turned chaotic near the city’s Chowringhee intersection.

At approximately 2:30 PM, NCP leaders and activists were ambushed from both sides by members of the banned Chhatra League and Awami League, who reportedly hurled bricks and stones at the convoy as it was leaving the Gopalganj Municipal Park rally. The incident triggered waves of attacks, plunging the area into violence.

In response, more than 100 police officers attempted to control the situation by firing blank bullets, teargas shells, rubber bullets, and sound grenades. Despite efforts, the attackers continued their aggression, and police forces were seen retreating at times due to the intensity of the attacks. At least four police personnel were injured and have been admitted to hospital.

An army unit initially arrived on the scene and attempted to disperse the attackers, but later withdrew toward the Deputy Commissioner’s office. They returned about an hour and a half later, preparing to resume efforts to quell the violence. Additionally, four platoons of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been deployed to support the civil administration in restoring order.

Meanwhile, NCP leaders, including Convener Nahid Islam, have taken shelter at the office of the Gopalganj Superintendent of Police, where they are coordinating with authorities for security and safety.

Section 144 — a law that prohibits gatherings, processions, and public assembly — will remain in force until further notice as authorities work to stabilize the situation.

The violence in Gopalganj follows earlier attacks on police vehicles and heightened tensions surrounding the NCP’s 'March to Gopalganj' initiative. The situation continues to evolve, with heavy deployments of security forces and heightened alertness across the district.

END/RH/AJ