Bomb-like Objects, Chemicals Seized at Madrasa After Blast in Keraniganj
Police recovered crude bomb-like objects and 400 litres of chemicals from a madrasa in South Keraniganj, Dhaka, following a Friday explosion. The madrasa's director, Al Amin Sheikh, a suspect with a history of terror charges and JMB links, fled the scene. Three women, including his wife, were detained. The blast caused severe damage, and investigations are underway to determine if the chemicals were for a specific purpose, possibly involving explosives and sabotage ahead of elections.
An explosion at the Ummal Qura International Madrasa in South Keraniganj, on Dhaka's outskirts, prompted police to recover four crude bomb-like objects and 400 litres of chemical substances, suspected to be hydrogen peroxide and other flammable liquids. The blast, occurring on Friday morning, caused significant damage to the madrasa building and nearby establishments, with two of the director's children sustaining injuries. Police are actively searching for Al Amin Sheikh, 33, a director of the madrasa who fled after the incident. Sheikh has a history of arrests on terror charges, including links to Jama'atul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) in 2017, and faces multiple cases across Dhaka. Three women, including Al Amin's wife, were detained for questioning. Dhaka District Superintendent of Police Mizanur Rahman stated that the chemicals were likely intended for a 'specific purpose,' possibly involving a chemical reaction with explosive substances, and investigators are probing potential sabotage plans ahead of the national election. The madrasa, which had about 25-30 students, operated from a rented flat. The building owner expressed shock and distress over the property's destruction, stating she was unaware of any suspicious activities. Authorities, including bomb disposal and anti-terrorism units, are continuing their investigation.
