Massive Fire at Bangladesh Secretariat: Claims of Awami League Corruption Documents Burned

A massive fire broke out at Building No. 7 of the Bangladesh Secretariat in Dhaka on Wednesday, destroying several government documents and raising suspicions of deliberate sabotage. Officials reported that the blaze caused significant damage to important records, and a high-level investigation committee has been formed to probe the incident.

Fire Engulfs Key Government Offices

The fire, which lasted for more than six hours, gutted the nine-story building housing seven ministries. No casualty was reported, but operations in several departments were affected. Power supply was cut off, and entry into the complex was restricted, meaning many employees could not access their offices.

Most of the rooms in the sixth, seventh, and eighth floors were severely destroyed, and the worst hits were on the documents and furniture of the Postal and Telecommunications ministries. There were also reports that efforts to fight the fire added to the damage of some records as they were exposed to water. Dead pigeons and broken windows were reported in the site.

Deliberate Sabotage Suspected

Brigadier General Zahid Kamal, fire brigade service head, believed the fire may not have been an accident. He told that the fire had begun simultaneously at three different locations within the building. He believed the incident was an act, which made authorities think the same.

Evidence of Corruption Burned

Interim government advisor Asif Mahmood Sajib Bhuiyan said that the burnt documents were those related to corruption under the government of Awami League and involved millions of dollars. He said, "If anyone is found involved in attempting to derail anti-corruption efforts, they will face severe consequences."

Bhuiyan said the lost documents were important as they exposed corruption related to the ruling party.

Investigation Launched

A seven-member committee of senior bureaucrats and police officials has been formed to probe the incident. Headed by Additional Secretary Mohammad Khalid Rahim, the committee has been directed to submit its findings within seven days.