Fear has gripped Bangladesh’s Christian community after a series of crude bomb attacks targeted three Catholic sites in Dhaka in recent weeks, police confirmed on Nov. 9. The incidents, which caused no injuries, appeared designed to create panic ahead of national elections set for February 2026.
The first blast occurred on Oct. 8 at the Holy Rosary Church, the capital’s oldest Catholic church, followed by explosions on Nov. 7 at St. Mary’s Cathedral and St. Joseph’s School and College. Police said the attackers arrived on a motorbike and fled after hurling the bombs. Dhaka police spokesman Muhammad Talebur Rahman stated the incidents were “certainly aimed at terrifying people,” though no group has claimed responsibility. Church officials reported anxiety among parishioners and announced enhanced security measures, including CCTV installations and entry checks.
Father Bulbul Augustine Rebeiro, secretary of the Episcopal Commission on Social Communication, called on authorities to swiftly investigate the attacks and ensure that those responsible face justice without delay.
Bangladesh, home to about 500,000 Christians among 170 million citizens, remains tense following last year’s uprising that toppled the government of Sheikh Hasina. Interim leader Muhammad Yunus has pledged to hold elections as scheduled despite escalating unrest.