Bangladesh authorities dispose of explosive device found at Motijheel Metro Station

Security personnel discovered an improvised explosive device hidden inside an umbrella under a pillar at Motijheel Metro Station, prompting police to cordon off the area and deploy a bomb disposal team, the home minister said.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said one or two members of the Bangladesh Ansar noticed the suspicious umbrella on July 24 and immediately alerted police officers on duty.

“Our bomb disposal unit went and disposed of it,” Ahmed said.

The discovery coincided with Ulto Rath, a major Hindu religious festival, fueling speculation that the device may have been connected to the celebration. Ahmed dismissed those claims.

“This improvised electronic device was found coincidentally on that day,” he said. “I do not think it has any connection with it.”

Ahmed said the Ansar members who first spotted the device would receive official recognition for their vigilance. He said instructions had already been issued to reward them.