Home Affairs Adviser Lt. Gen. (retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said only a thorough investigation will determine whether the fire at the Bangladesh Secretariat was an act of sabotage or an accident.

Speaking to journalists outside the Secretariat around 9 am on Thursday (December 26), the adviser underscored the importance of waiting for the investigation's findings before drawing conclusions. 

He was accompanied by Adilur Rahman Khan, Adviser to the Ministry of Housing, Public Works, and Industries.

Responding to questions about potential foul play, the Home Affairs Adviser remarked, "It is too early to say if this was a conspiracy or sabotage. We will only know after the investigation is completed." 

He added, "Accidents can happen anywhere, which is why they are termed as such. The fire service is stationed within the Secretariat as a precaution for such occurrences."

When pressed further about initial assessments from the Fire Service, he reiterated, "We cannot comment at this stage. The source of the fire and its nature will be determined during the investigation."

He said, "A fire broke out on the sixth floor of Secretariat building number 7 at 1:50 am. The Fire Service received the report at 1:52 am and began their operation at 1:54 am. The fire was fully brought under control by 8:05 am."

The adviser also announced the formation of a high-powered investigation committee, instructed by the Cabinet Secretary, to thoroughly examine the incident.

The fire claimed the life of a firefighter, Sohanur Zaman Nayan, who was fatally struck by a truck while crossing the road to connect a water pipe during the operation. 

"He was carrying out his duty when this unfortunate accident occurred. He succumbed to his injuries on the way to the hospital," the Home Affairs Adviser said.

BDST: 1013 HRS, DEC 26, 2024
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