Sufi leader’s family 'leaves house' fearing for safety following attack by locals in Savar

Local Sufi leader Kazi Jaber's house was attacked by locals on Sunday night, injuring several family members.

The attackers also tried to vandalise the shrine of the late Kazi Afsar Uddin, father of Jaber, in Chakulia under Bongao Union, victims and the police told The Business Standard. 

"Hundreds of people attacked our house between 9:00pm and 1:00am as per a prior announcement," Kazi Golam Rasul, brother of Jaber, said.

According to Rasul, later police and army members arrived at the house and brought the situation under control at around 2:00am. "We were given 30 minutes to pack our things and leave with them."

"Following the instructions of the police and the army, we took necessary clothes from the house and came out with them. At night, we were brought to the police station. Later those who were injured were taken to the hospital for treatment. We have now taken shelter at a relative's house," said Rasul.

He alleged that their followers were also beaten when they went to visit the house on Monday (30 September) morning.

"We could have stayed at home if the law enforcement forces could provide us with full-fledged security," he added.

The Business Standard could not reach any of the alleged attackers.

"We, along with army members, reached the spot as soon as we were informed. The situation was brought under control without any bloodshed. We also talked to the locals and calmed them down," Jewel Mia, officer-in-charge of Savar Model Police Station, told The Business Standard.

He, however, said Jaber's family members "decided to stay at another place as they are not feeling comfortable living at the house" presently.

No case has been filed over the incident, he said.