Kathmandu: Protests have continued in Bangladesh’s capital Dhaka following the death of Inquilab Moncho leader Sharif Usman bin Hadi, with unrest spreading to several parts of the city.

After a night of violent disturbances targeting the offices of leading media outlets, including The Daily Star and Pratham Alo, protesters gathered at the partially demolished residence of Father of the Nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to vent their anger. Eyewitnesses said demonstrators attempted to further damage the remaining structure and set fire to a poster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina displayed at the site.

As tensions escalated nationwide, Inquilab Moncho appealed to the public to exercise restraint. In a statement posted on Facebook late Thursday night, the organization urged people to refrain from violence, vandalism and arson. The post warned that certain groups were attempting to destabilize Bangladesh through destruction, stressing the need to safeguard the country’s independence and sovereignty.

The statement also called on citizens to consider who would benefit from unrest, particularly with elections approaching, and appealed for support to maintain stability in the country.

Meanwhile, a journalist trapped during the attack on The Daily Star office recounted a harrowing experience. According to the account, newsroom staff attempted to evacuate after receiving warnings that a mob was approaching following vandalism at Pratham Alo. However, by the time they moved, protesters had already reached the building, causing extensive damage and setting part of it on fire.

With smoke filling the premises, several journalists were forced to take refuge on the roof. Fire service personnel later arrived, brought the situation under control, and safely evacuated those stranded. Four firefighters reportedly reached the rooftop during the rescue operation.

In the aftermath of the incident and due to security concerns, both Pratham Alo and The Daily Star announced that they would not be published on Friday.