Dhaka Airport Fire: Sabotage Probe Launched as Authorities Confirm No Casualties

A massive fire that ravaged the cargo complex of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on Saturday is now the subject of a high level government investigation into potential arson, following a string of recent blazes across the country. While firefighters have successfully brought the flames under control and flights have resumed, authorities are warning of a severe response if deliberate criminal acts are confirmed.

The blaze, which erupted at the cargo village around 2:15 p.m. on Saturday, forced a temporary suspension of all flight operations as thick black smoke engulfed the area. In a press release issued late Saturday, the Bangladeshi Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism confirmed that the fire was fully contained after a coordinated effort by the fire service and airport authority, and stressed that no casualties were reported in the incident.

However, the focus has quickly shifted to the cause and context of the fire. The government issued a statement today, urging calm but delivering a stern warning: "Any credible evidence of sabotage or arson will be met with a swift and resolute response." The statement, widely quoted by local media, confirmed that security services are "investigating each fire incident thoroughly and protecting lives and property with utmost vigilance," acknowledging growing public concern after a recent garment factory fire claimed 16 lives in the capital.

The economic fallout is expected to be significant. The affected complex housed vast consignments of goods, including fabrics, garment accessories, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. National Board of Revenue (NBR) official Moshiur Rahman has confirmed to the media that the NBR has begun assessing the total value of the damage, with industry groups anticipating losses that could reach millions of dollars for importers and exporters, severely impacting the country's crucial ready-made garment sector. The authorities are striving to restore full cargo operations while simultaneously working to stabilize the security environment amidst a period of political turmoil leading up to elections slated for early 2026.

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