DHAKA, Jan 6, 2024 (BSS) - Ruling Awami League's (AL) election conducting media subcommittee today revealed that BNP-Jamaat has set fire to 658 buses and 17 trains across the country since October 28 last that claimed at least lives of 10 people.

AL Media Cell Member Secretary Mohammad A Arafat disclosed the information at a press briefing at AL's district office in the city's Tejgaon area this afternoon.

He said from the fire incident carried out by BNP-Jamaat at least 20 drivers and helpers of buses received burn injuries while one policeman was killed and more 150 received injuries during this time.

They (BNP-Jamaat supporters) exploited at least 400 hand bombs and cocktails and attacked over 50 journalists and six AL offices during the period, said Arafat, also AL Central Working Committee member. They also set a court room of Khulna Court on fire, he added.

Referring to BNP-Jamaat's previous atrocities, the AL leader said they (BNP-Jamaat) again chose the path of fire terrorism like 2013-14 instead of going through democratic political process.

"The fire set by BNP-Jamaat on Benapole Express train claimed four lives, including a mother and a child, and injured several others on Friday night," he said.

He expressed deep shock at the death of the passengers and conveyed deep sympathy to the bereaved families.

AL Office Secretary Biplab Barua, Health Affairs Secretary Dr Rokeya Sultana, Deputy Publicity Secretary Abdul Awal Shamim, Deputy Office Secretary Sayem Khan and Central Working Committee members Sahabuddin Farazi and Gulam Rabbani Chinu, among others, were present at the briefing.