Thousands took to the streets of Dhaka early this morning. This followed news that Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent leader of the 2024 protests that toppled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government, died on 18/12 at a Singapore hospital.

Hadi, 32, was shot and critically wounded by masked gunmen on 12/12. The attack occurred as he left a mosque in Dhaka. At the time of his death, Hadi was campaigning for a parliamentary seat in the February 2026 election.

Protesters burning fires, blocking roads in Dhaka early this morning. *AFP*

In Dhaka, protesters demanded authorities arrest Hadi's assassins. Demonstrators set several buildings on fire, including the offices of two leading Bangladeshi newspapers, Daily Star and Prothom Alo. "We took shelter behind the building and could hear the crowd chanting slogans", a Daily Star reporter said.

Hundreds of protesters also surrounded the home of India's deputy ambassador to Bangladesh. Police responded by firing tear gas to disperse the crowd.

Bangladesh army taking positions during protests in Dhaka this morning. *AFP*

Violence spread to several other cities, notably Chattogram. Protesters there blocked a major highway leading from the capital. They also attacked the private residence of a former minister in the southeastern city and targeted the Bengal Chhayanaut cultural center.

Bangladesh police are searching for two suspects in Hadi's assassination. They have offered a 42,000 USD reward for information leading to their arrest.

Duc Trung (According to Guardian, India Times, AFP)