Photo: BSS

BARISHAL, Aug 3, 2026 (BSS) - Three people, including a woman and a child, sustained severe burn injuries in an explosion in Bakerganj upazila of the district early this morning.

The incident occurred around 6.00 am in Dudhalmou village under Bhorpasha union.

The injured were identified as Hanufa Begum, 50, wife of Shah Alam Hawlader; their daughter, Iti, 22, and grandson, Fahim, 14. 

They were initially taken to Bakerganj Upazila Health Complex and later referred to Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital in Barishal.

A powerful explosion occurred beside Shah Alam Hawlader's house, triggering panic among residents. The blast reportedly originated from a sand-filled sack kept near the house.

Family members said the three victims suffered burn injuries and jumped into the nearby Tulatala River in an attempt to save themselves. Local residents later rescued and rushed them to hospital.

Shah Alam's son, Jamal, said the explosion took place inside a sack of sand kept beside the house.

Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Bakerganj Police Station Adil Hossain said an investigation has been launched to determine the source and cause of the explosion.

"The incident is being investigated with utmost importance. It will be possible to determine the type of explosive used and identify those responsible after the investigation is completed," the OC said, adding that it is still unclear who left the suspected explosive at the site and for what purpose."

Legal action will be taken based on the findings, while law enforcement agencies continue their efforts to identify those involved, he said.

Barishal Superintendent of Police AZM Mostafizur Rahman said a Bomb Disposal Unit from Dhaka is on its way to Barishal. The specialist team will examine the scene to determine the type of explosive involved and how the explosion occurred.