PM Sheikh Hasina’s Residence Looted, Did not Spare Tables, Rugs, Files

Protestors have forcefully entered the official residence of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka, leading to widespread looting and vandalism. This event occurred amidst ongoing turmoil that has resulted in nearly 100 fatalities due to violent clashes. Prime Minister Hasina, whose current whereabouts are undisclosed, was evacuated from her residence via motorcade and helicopter.

The protestors, waving Bangladesh flags, breached the gates of Ganabhaban, the Prime Minister’s official residence. Social media footage showed individuals inside the residence, taking items such as rugs and utensils, sitting on office tables, taking photos, and sifting through files and documents.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in office since 2009, had been resisting calls for her resignation for several weeks. She was forced to flee after a particularly violent day of unrest on Sunday. The clashes between protestors and government supporters resulted in nearly 100 deaths, including 14 police officers. According to an AFP tally, the total death toll since the unrest began in early July has reached at least 300, with information sourced from police, government officials, and hospital doctors.

A source close to the 76-year-old leader informed AFP that Hasina initially left her residence by motorcade when the protestors stormed the building. The source added, “She was later evacuated by helicopter,” without specifying her destination.

On the deadliest day of the unrest, at least 94 people lost their lives. The violent clashes between protestors and government supporters saw the use of sticks and knives, with security forces resorting to opening fire. The ongoing turmoil has led to significant casualties and property damage.

The Bangladeshi military has a history of intervening during periods of political unrest. An official statement highlighted that “the military always stood by the people.” In January 2007, the military declared an emergency and established a military-backed caretaker government, which ruled for two years.

As the unrest continues to escalate, the situation remains tense, with the location and safety of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina still unknown.