Dhaka, shoot out in border guard’s headquarters

An argument between soldiers and officers over stalled back pay at the root of the episode. Hospital sources speak of one dead and eight injured. The government invites the mutinous guards to lay down their arms.

Dhaka (AsiaNews/Agencies) – A gun battle has broken out inside of the Bangladesh border guards or Bangladesh Rifle, headquarters in the capital, Dhaka. Hospital sources speak of one dead and eight wounded, most of whom are civilians caught up in the shoot out.

There are two unconfirmed reports on the cause of the episode: an argument between officers during a top level meeting, or, an argument between soldiers and officers over unpaid wages.  The paramilitary mutiny resulted in army intervention in order to quell the rebellion.

Local sources report that a group of mutineers opened fire within the Headquarters of Bangladesh Rifle and then assaulted a nearby shopping centre.  There were civilian victims among the people

The government of newly elected premier Sheikh Hasina issued a public statement inviting the mutineers to lay down their arms and return to their barracks; the executive says it is willing to open negotiations to address their claims.

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