2009 Bangladesh Rifles Revolt - Second Day

Second Day

Home Minister Sahara Khatun convinced some of the mutineers to give up their arms by assuring them that the Army would not go into the BDR headquarters. As a result, the rebels began to surrender their arms and release the hostages. However, as this was happening in Dhaka, revolts by other members of the BDR started in at least 12 other towns and cities. Fighting and takeovers by the BDR was reported in: Chittagong, at Feni, on the eastern border with India, in Rajshahi in the north-west, and Sylhet in the north.

As of 26 February, BDR outposts at more than 46 locations were reported to have shown signs of great agitation. BDR jawans have claimed to have taken command of Jessor BDR garrison as well as major BDR establishments in Satkhira, Dinajpur, Naogaon and Netrokona. Army Tanks and APC'S were brought outside as the Army took position.But they could not move as officers were kept as hostage.BDR Headquarters had heavy weapons inside which were controlled by the rebels.Army were preparing for an final assault as tanks were rolling the streets of Dhaka.Paratroops and Commandos were ready.But the PM tried to solve the case without any casualties.

As per media tickers, the BDR members again started surrendering their arms after the PM addressed the nation and reassured the BDR personnel that no action will be taken against them. But she also warned the mutineers of "harsh actions" if they don't immediately lay down their arms and cease all hostilities. Following the speech of Sheikh Hasina, the army deployed tanks in front of the BDR headquarters. After that, the mutineers surrendered their arms as described by the media spokesman of the Prime Minister. Following the surrender, Armed Police Battalion took over the BDR headquarters.