Bulkhead workers have issued a stern warning of strikes and tougher actions if the perpetrators of recent murders on ships in the Meghna River are not apprehended soon.
They also demanded an end to illegal extortion in the guise of tokens, harassment and violence against workers by operatives of unauthorized sand depots.
The protest was organized on Monday afternoon at Sarulia Ghat along the Shitalakshya River by Bangladesh Ship Workers Federation's Bangladesh Maritime Workers and Employees Union (Sarulia Ghat Branch).
Led by the branch president, Md. Shamim, other prominent speakers included General Secretary Humayun Kabir Panna, Organizational Secretary Md. Raihan, and labor activists Zahir, Shaon, Mizan, Saiful, and Sohag. Victims of these attacks also shared their harrowing experiences.
Speakers highlighted rampant illegal sand depots in areas like Narayanganj, Munshiganj's Gazaria, Mohanpur, Matlob and other points along the Meghna River. Armed individuals allegedly associated with these depots stop moving bulkheads, extort money under the guise of tokens and violently assault workers if demands are unmet. Victims reported instances of physical violence, theft of cash and mobile phones.
The Central Committee General Secretary, Sobuj Shikder, stated via phone, "Yesterday, several bulkheads and ships were attacked by criminals who assaulted crew members and looted money and phones. A tragic robbery took place on the 'Al Bakar' ship in Meghna's Majher Char area, leaving at least nine injured, with seven fatalities reported so far."
Shikder condemned the horrific killings and demanded the immediate arrest and exemplary punishment of the culprits. He warned, "If swift action is not taken, maritime workers will be forced to halt operations and announce stricter measures."
