Army launches investigation into 'unfortunate incident' during Milestone College rescue operation

A training fighter jet of the Bangladesh Air Force crashed in Dhaka’s Diabari area of Uttara around 1:18pm on Monday, 21 July.

Soon after the crash, personnel from a nearby Bangladesh Army camp rushed to the site and began rescue operations, working in coordination with the Fire Service and other emergency response agencies.

However, rescue efforts were severely hampered as large crowds of onlookers ignored repeated requests to vacate the area. The delay in moving the injured to safety heightened the risk of further casualties. Both army personnel and volunteers from Milestone School repeatedly appealed to the public to clear the scene, but many refused to leave.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced that appropriate administrative measures would be taken against anyone found responsible during the ongoing investigation.

The statement also noted that, during the afternoon rescue efforts, a misunderstanding and scuffle broke out between some bystanders and members of the army and volunteer teams. The situation escalated into an unfortunate incident, resulting in 14 army personnel falling ill. They are currently being treated at the Combined Military Hospital (CMH).

The ISPR emphasized that the Bangladesh Army has always served the nation with professionalism and dedication and will continue to fulfill its responsibilities in that spirit.

The tragic crash has so far claimed 31 lives, including children, and left at least 165 others injured. A formal investigation has been launched by the Bangladesh Army.