FROM PAGE 5

According to Industrial Police and EPZ sources, a total of 173 workers were recently dismissed from three factories -- including Excelsior Shoes and JW Apparel -- during the Eid holidays.

The terminated employees were reportedly paid four months’ basic salary along with other benefits.

Unrest erupted following the dismissals, with workers blocking the main CEPZ road for over 30 minutes yesterday afternoon.

Mohammad Solaiman, superintendent of the Industrial Police, Chattogram range, said the unrest at Excelsior Shoes Ltd began around 8:30am when the terminated workers gathered at the factory gate.

Quoting witnesses, he said the protesters broke the main gate, stormed the premises, and began attacking officials and staff.

Security supervisor Mamun, who was injured in the attack, said 60 to 70 people, including the terminated workers, forcibly entered the compound and beat up guards and officials.

They also vandalised office equipment, including glass doors, window panes, and computers.

GM Mohiuddin told The Daily Star that 40 of the terminated workers had been dismissed following discussions with the CEPZ authority, on charges of inciting unrest and involvement in earlier clashes in January and February.

All dues were cleared prior to termination, he added.

Abdus Sobhan, executive director of CEPZ, said the situation was brought under control with assistance from law enforcement agencies by 2:30pm.