
An explosive device was thrown at the residence of Bangladesh cricketer Shakib Al Hasan in Dhaka on Wednesday, hours after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina held a press conference in Delhi. The attack took place in the evening, with local police reaching the spot shortly after the incident.
No casualties have been reported so far. The property, located in a upscale area of the Bangladeshi capital, suffered minor damage, though officials have not yet confirmed the exact nature of the explosive used.
The timing of the attack has drawn attention. It came just hours after Sheikh Hasina, who has been in exile in India since her ouster, addressed the media in New Delhi. During her presser, she spoke about the political situation in Bangladesh and called for a restoration of democracy, without directly referencing Shakib.
Shakib, one of Bangladesh's most prominent sports figures, has kept a low profile since the political upheaval that forced Hasina to flee the country. He has not yet commented on the incident.
Dhaka Metropolitan Police have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation. Preliminary reports suggest the attackers fled on a motorcycle, but no arrests have been made. Security has been heightened around the cricketer's other known properties.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear. Some local media speculate it could be linked to Shakib's alleged political affiliations, but no evidence has been presented. Authorities have urged the public not to spread rumours.
The attack has sparked concern among Bangladesh's cricket fraternity. The country's cricket board has not issued an official statement, but several former players have condemned the incident on social media, calling for Shakib's safety.
In Delhi, Sheikh Hasina's aides declined to comment on the attack, saying it was a matter for Bangladeshi authorities. The Indian government has also not made any official remarks.
This is not the first time Shakib's name has been dragged into political turmoil. He has previously faced criticism for his ties with the Hasina-led government, which was toppled amid mass protests earlier this year.
As police continue their investigation, attention will be on whether the attack is a one-off act of violence or a sign of broader instability. Shakib's next public appearance and any official statement from him will be closely monitored.