Peaceful Takeover? Mob Celebrating Hasina's Ouster In Bangladesh Sets Fire To Hotel Owned By Her Party Man, Killing 24

Amid several reports of rioting in Bangladesh, where five-time woman Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was forced to resign yesterday (5 August), distressing news has emerged of a mob celebrating her ouster setting fire to a hotel, killing at least 24 people.  

The cwas owned by Shahin Chakladar, a leader of Hasina’s party, the Awami League.

As per local reports, the five-star rated hotel is located in the Jessore area. The fire began around 4 pm yesterday and could be controlled only after four hours.

Reportedly, the mob prevented fire officials from carrying out the rescue work. After about an hour of burning, an Air Force helicopter rescued many individuals trapped in the 14-storey hotel.

A fire brigade official told the media that most people died of suffocation. Around 150 people were admitted to hospitals after their rescue.

Among the victims was an Indonesian citizen.

As per reports, as thousands of anti-Hasina protesters took to the streets in celebration, they attacked various landmarks, including a mural of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, a sculpture of Sheikh Russel, and the district Awami League office.

The mob that attacked the hotel was a 'victory march' that started in Jessore (or Jashore) around 3:45 pm.