Mutiny in Bangladesh Rifles, 14 officers feared killed
A rebellion broke out in paramilitary Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) Headquarters in Pilkhana area in Dhaka on Wednesday. There was heavy gun battle among the troops at their main barracks.
According to the reports, revolt erupted over pay and perks.
At least 14 BDR officers including the top brass are feared killed. Director General of Bangladesh Rifles has also been killed in the firing. Meanwhile, several civilians caught in the crossfire were injured.
According to an eyewitness, "The firing has been going on since 9 am. It's going on in the market as well. Some of the army people have come over to this side but we still cannot go to this area."
Bangladesh Rifles soldiers have taken control of a mall near the headquarters.
Officials said that army was called out to crush the rebellion as witnesses reported movement of military convoys and hovering of air force helicopters over the sky of the Pilkhana barracks.
Smoke could be seen coming from the complex, with security forces sealing the area off.
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has urged soldiers to lay down arms and offered to negotiate over their demands.
"The army troops are now chalking out plans to enter into the barracks where heavy exchanges of gunshots were still underway," an army source said but officials inside the BDR Headquarters could not be reached.
After independence from Pakistan in 1971, Bangladesh has had a history of coups and counter-coups. (With PTI inputs)
NDTV.com: Mutiny in Bangladesh Rifles, 14 officers feared killed
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Notable thing about these news from Indian media is that they all are reporting DG is killed,whereas BD media is claiming he is safe.The Red cross ambulance is inside the HQ,let's see what they say after they come out.