On the night of February 17, 2025, a harrowing incident unfolded on a Dhaka-Rajshahi bound bus, where passengers were subjected to a prolonged robbery, and at least one Hindu woman raped and reportedly sexually assaulted. The ordeal lasted approximately three and a half hours, during which the assailants took control of the vehicle, terrorizing the passengers and committing grievous offenses.
The Ordeal Begins
The bus, operated by Unique Road Royals under the name “Amari Travels,” departed from Dhaka’s Gabtoli terminal around 11:30 PM, carrying approximately 60 to 65 passengers—exceeding its seating capacity, leading many to stand. Shortly after departure, the driver and his assistants allowed seven to eight additional individuals to board the bus mid-route. Unbeknownst to the passengers, these newcomers were part of a coordinated gang.
Once aboard, the gang members swiftly overpowered the driver, with one taking control of the vehicle. The remaining assailants brandished knives, threatening passengers and instructing them to keep their heads down and eyes closed. Any attempt to resist was met with violence; several passengers were stabbed to instill fear and ensure compliance.
Robbery and Assault
Among the passengers were 22-year-old businessman Sohag Hasan and his associate, Omar Ali, who had a substantial sum of money for business purposes. Despite initially handing over a portion of their cash, the assailants, with apparent assistance from the bus staff, coerced them into surrendering the remaining amount. Hasan recounted being physically assaulted, pinned to the floor until he relinquished all his money.
Tragically, the violence escalated beyond robbery. Two female passengers, seated mid-bus, became primary targets. One of them, a Hindu woman traveling with her husband, was forcibly dragged to the back of the bus by a gang member. Her husband’s attempts to intervene were brutally suppressed. Hasan and other passengers recounted hearing her distressing screams and cries, unable to assist due to the gang’s threats and control.
Another woman, estimated to be between 25 and 30 years old, was also subjected to severe harassment. While she was not relocated within the bus, assailants molested her in her seat, ignoring her pleas and the protests of fellow passengers.
Aftermath and Legal Proceedings
Following the traumatic events, the bus continued its journey, eventually arriving at the Borai Gram area in Natore district. Distraught passengers demanded justice, leading local police to detain the bus driver, his assistant, and the supervisor. However, these individuals were subsequently released on bail.
Despite the severity of the crimes, conflicting reports have emerged regarding the filing of official complaints. While passengers assert that sexual assaults occurred, local police officials from Borai Gram and Mirzapur stations have stated they were not informed of such incidents. As of now, no formal case has been registered concerning the assaults, leading to widespread concern and calls for thorough investigations.
Community Response
The incident has sparked outrage and fear among the public, particularly within the Hindu community, given the targeted assault on a Hindu woman. Advocacy groups and community leaders are urging authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation, ensure justice for the victims, and implement measures to prevent such atrocities in the future.
This tragic event underscores the pressing need for enhanced security measures on public transportation and a more responsive legal framework to support victims of such heinous crimes.
Source: jugantor, bbc bangla, prothom alo
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