Several individuals have been detained by US police following an attack and vandalism at the Bangladesh Consulate in New York, the consulate confirmed in a press release on Tuesday (August 26).
According to the release, the attack took place on Sunday (August 24) during a discussion session organised by the Bangladesh Consulate to mark the first anniversary of the July-August Mass Uprising Day. The event was attended by over 150 Bangladeshi expatriate students and community members, with Mahfuj Alam, Adviser to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, as the chief guest. Police had been deployed in advance at the consulate to ensure security.
However, from around 5:00 pm, a group of attackers gathered outside the consulate, shouting anti-government slogans and using abusive language. They chased attendees, blocked entry, and threw eggs. At one point, they even struck a glass door of a nearby office, causing it to shatter.
The consulate stated that police acted promptly to disperse the attackers and detained several individuals. Photographs and video footage of the incident are in police custody, and legal action will be taken, the New York Police assured the consulate.
The consulate also emphasised that police remained on high alert throughout the event. The chief guest entered the venue without incident, and after the discussion session and dinner, left safely.
The Consul General has formally informed local police, the mayor, and the local office of the US State Department to take necessary action against the attackers.
The consulate further stated that there was no direct contact between Adviser Mahfuj Alam and the attackers, and all attempts by the attackers were unsuccessful. It also noted that misleading information and propaganda about the incident have circulated on social media.