House of former cricket captain burned by protesters in Bangladesh

Anti-government protests in Bangladesh have led to the prime minister stepping down and the army chief taking control

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Protesters in Bangladesh have set fire to the house of former cricket captain and current Member of Parliament, Mashrafe Bin Mortaza.

The incident occurred amid violence and chaos that also resulted in the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday.

Mashrafe Mortaza, who represents the Narail-2 constituency in Khulna as a member of the Awami League, has seen his residence targeted amid widespread unrest.

Local media reports indicate that protesters vandalised and set fire to his home shortly after Sheikh Hasina's departure from the country.

Mortaza, a celebrated figure in Bangladesh cricket, led the national team in 117 matches across formats, securing 390 international wickets and scoring 2,955 runs.

He transitioned into politics in 2018, winning his parliamentary seat as an Awami League candidate for the second time earlier this year.

The violence extended beyond Mortaza's residence, with protesters also attacking the District Awami League office and vandalising the home of its President, Subash Chandra Bose.

These actions underscore the escalating tensions and widespread dissatisfaction with the current political climate.

Sheikh Hasina, who has led Bangladesh since 2009, reportedly flew to Hindon Air Base near Delhi in a military transport plane amid the chaos.

Her official residence, Ganabhaban, was also vandalised by thousands of protesters in Dhaka.

As Bangladesh navigates this period of political turmoil, the situation remains tense with no clear resolution in sight.

The targeting of high-profile figures like Mashrafe Mortaza highlights the deep-seated divisions and unrest that continue to plague the nation.