A protest organized by customers and shareholders of Islami Bank Bangladesh in front of Islami Bank Tower in Motijheel turned violent on Monday, according to a statement from the Victim Customers Coordination Council. Demonstrators claimed that police used batons, tear gas, water cannons, and sound grenades to disperse their human chain, leaving more than a hundred people injured and around fifty shot. The incident occurred during a demonstration opposing the appointment of Khurshid Alam as the bank’s new chairman.

The council stated that thousands joined the protest demanding the cancellation of Khurshid Alam’s appointment and the reinstatement of former managing director Omar Faruk Khan. Despite police intervention, protesters regrouped in front of the bank tower. Council president Professor Nur Nabi Manik alleged that the appointment, made through a Bangladesh Bank circular on May 24, reflected government interference and an attempt to reintroduce individuals linked to S Alam Group into the bank.

He further claimed that Islami Bank is facing a liquidity crisis, with customers struggling to withdraw funds. The protesters demanded the removal of S Alam Group affiliates and restoration of control to the bank’s original owners.