Worker killed in clash with law enforcers

NILPHAMARI, Sept 02: A worker was killed and at least seven others injured during a clash between protesting workers and joint forces at Uttara Export Processing Zone (EPZ) in Nilphamari on Tuesday.

The deceased, identified as Habib Islam (20), son of Dulal Hossain from Kazirhat in Songolshi Union, worked as a night guard at Eco Company in the EPZ and was reportedly shot on his way home.

The unrest began Tuesday morning when workers, protesting for the past two days against layoffs at Evergreen Factory, locked the main gate following a sudden closure notice issued by the company Monday night.

Lt. Col. S M Badruddoza of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) Battalion 56 said, "Police, Army, and BGB worked together to keep the situation under control. The overall condition is now stable."

Dr. Tanvirul Islam, Medical Officer at Nilphamari General Hospital, confirmed, "Habib was brought dead with a chest injury. Whether it was a bullet wound can only be confirmed after the autopsy."

Evergreen Factory authorities stated that ongoing protests disrupted production, causing fears of heavy losses. "Therefore, under Section 12(1) of the Bangladesh EPZ Labour Law 2019, the factory is closed indefinitely from September 2. It will reopen once the situation normalises," the statement added.