Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Dr. Shafiqur Rahman issued a statement on October 18 expressing deep concern over the devastating fire at the Cargo Village of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport,
In the statement, he said: As the country’s main international gateway, this airport is not only a hub for passenger transport but also a significant symbol of Bangladesh’s image and reputation. Within the span of just one week, the country has witnessed major fires at two locations — in Mirpur, Dhaka, and in the Chattogram EPZ area — followed today by this fire at the airport’s Cargo Village. This raises a serious question as to whether these incidents are merely accidental or part of a deliberate act of sabotage.
A fire at such a strategic and sensitive installation as the airport clearly reflects administrative mismanagement, negligence, and a grave lack of security preparedness.
If any element of negligence, mismanagement, or sabotage is found to be involved in this incident, the authorities must ensure a thorough, impartial, and prompt investigation. Those responsible must be identified and brought under the rule of law to face exemplary punishment.
I urge the authorities to guarantee the highest level of safety and fire-prevention measures at all important installations across the country, including airports, so that such incidents do not recur in the future.
I express my deep sympathy toward the anxious passengers and the general public, and extend heartfelt condolences to the importers and affected business owners who have suffered huge losses in this tragedy. I also express my special gratitude to the firefighters and members of the various agencies who have been working tirelessly to extinguish the fire.
May Almighty Allah protect our beloved country from all kinds of accidents, disasters, and unexpected calamities. Ameen.”
