Explosion rocks Barishal court premises; police investigate potential targeted disruption

BARISAL — An explosion rocked the entrance of the Barisal Court premises on Wednesday morning, triggering panic among litigants, lawyers, and court staff. While the incident caused no casualties, authorities have launched an investigation into the nature of the blast and the individuals responsible.
The explosion occurred between 10:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. while court proceedings were underway. CCTV footage obtained by investigators shows a quiet scene moments before the blast, with individuals entering and exiting the main gate. The footage captures several bystanders near the gate, including elderly persons and women, who were seen retreating in panic immediately after the blast.
Barisal Metropolitan Police Commissioner Abu Raihan Md. Saleh stated that preliminary assessments, based on the nature of the explosion and evidence collected at the scene, suggest the use of a crude explosive device, similar to a cocktail bomb. Commissioner Saleh noted that the blast did not produce a significant sound, and while the footage remains under review, it has not yet confirmed whether an explosive was thrown from outside the premises.
The Criminal Investigation Department’s (CID) crime scene unit arrived at the site to collect forensic evidence, including shards of glass, fragments of plastic, and traces of gunpowder. Officials confirmed that the samples are being sent to Dhaka for laboratory analysis. A CID official, speaking on condition of anonymity, indicated that while the blast did not cause extensive structural damage, a definitive conclusion regarding the materials used will only be possible after the forensic reports are finalized.
Addressing the intent behind the incident, Commissioner Saleh stated that the authorities suspect the explosion was likely intended to incite fear.
In response to the security breach, judges from the District and Sessions Judge Court held an emergency meeting on Wednesday afternoon to discuss heightened safety protocols. Police are currently reviewing and strengthening security measures across the court complex, with increased surveillance at the main gate and surrounding entry points. Personnel have been instructed to maintain high alert for suspicious objects or individuals.
Deputy Police Commissioner Sushant Sarkar confirmed that investigators are synthesizing forensic results, eyewitness accounts, and technical evidence to determine the motive and identity of those behind the blast.