Bangladesh tightens security after youth leader’s killing amid unrest fears sparked by media attacks

Bangladesh tightens security on Saturday as authorities in Bangladesh have deployed additional police and paramilitary forces across the capital, Dhaka, as a precautionary measure ahead of the funeral prayers of a slain youth leader and election candidate. 

The move comes amid heightened tensions following his killing, which has triggered protests, clashes, and a spike in violent incidents in several areas.

The 32-year-old activist died at a hospital in Singapore, where he had been undergoing treatment after being shot in the head on December 12 by a masked attacker riding a motorcycle while campainging for elections.

Hadi was a key figure in the 2024 mass uprising that led to the fall of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who later left the country for India. Following his death, angry crowds attacked the offices of two major newspapers — the Bengali daily Prothom Alo and the English-language Daily Star — accusing them of supporting Indian interests.

Both buildings were set on fire, leaving journalists and staff trapped inside. Firefighters used ladders to rescue several people, while army units were deployed to secure the area. A Daily Star reporter posted online from inside the building, saying she was struggling to breathe due to heavy smoke.