DMP Commissioner says instructions to open fire on violent attackers are lawful
Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Mohammad Sajjad Ali has instructed police to open fire if anyone attempts to set vehicles on fire or throw cocktails in a manner that endangers lives and property.
The instruction was issued on Sunday (16 November) afternoon via wireless communication, the DMP Commissioner himself confirmed to the media.
He told reporters, “Yes, I have given such instructions. If anyone sets a bus on fire or throws cocktails and attacks the police, will they just sit quietly?”
This directive comes as the verdict in the trial of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina over alleged crimes against humanity during the July uprising approaches, and the Awami League, under activity restrictions, organized protests and a “Dhaka lockdown” from 10 to 13 November.
It is worth noting that the Commissioner of Chattogram Metropolitan Police had issued a similar directive five days earlier, and now the DMP Commissioner has followed suit.
