Authorities have detained 23 individuals linked to vandalism and arson during protests involving employees of Beximco Group and Doreen Group in the Kashimpur area of Gazipur. The arrests occurred during a raid, and the suspects were subsequently handed over to the Kashimpur Police Station, as confirmed by Akbar Ali Khan, deputy commissioner (crime-north) of Gazipur Metropolitan Police.
The protests, which erupted over delayed salary payments and the unexpected closure of factories, escalated into violent incidents where protesters allegedly attacked local residents and set one factory on fire. Investigations are currently underway to identify any innocent individuals among those detained, with assurances that legal action will be taken against the actual perpetrators.
The unrest has persisted, with workers blocking the Chandra-Nabinagar highway today to voice their demands for overdue salaries and the immediate reopening of their factories. Approximately 41,000 workers are employed at the Beximco Industrial Park, which houses apparel and ceramic factories.
The protests commenced on 14th November regarding the non-payment of October salaries. Following a brief pause, demonstrations intensified over the weekend, culminating in a 10-hour blockade of the highway. On Monday, protesters amplified their efforts, blocking the road for 13 hours and causing significant traffic delays for thousands of commuters.
Workers from three Doreen Group factories – Doreen Garments, Doreen Apparels, and Doreen Washing Plant – expressed discontent over their factories being closed without prior notice. They declared that their protests would continue until the factories, which employ more than 5,000 workers, are reopened. Additionally, they are demanding the rehiring of over 100 workers who were recently terminated.
The situation remains tense as authorities and workers continue to negotiate in hopes of resolving the ongoing disputes.
