Three dead, dozens injured in police firing in Bangladesh

CHITTAGONG/DHAKA - At least three people were killed and dozens of others were injured after police opened fire on tens of thousands of Bangladeshi garment workers who were demanding better pay during protests here and in Dhaka on Sunday.

According to the Daily Times and the Daily Star, police fired live bullets and tear gas shells during demonstrations in Dhaka and the southeastern city of Chittagong, a day after Korean company Youngone shut down all 17 of its factories following staff riots.

Bangladesh’s garment workers, who make clothes for many Western brands, have been angered that employers have not yet implemented a government hike in wages due last month.

Chittagong Special Branch Police Chief Meshbahuddin, who was also injured in the incident at the Chittagong Export Processing Zone, said about 20,000 workers attacked factories and a police station.

Police officials said the workers rampaged through the area, torching and damaging scores of vehicles.

Bangladesh has 4,500 garment factories that produce clothes for brand retailers like Wal-Mart, H and M and Levi Strauss.

Garment worker unions have repeatedly complained that many manufacturers have not raised salaries, despite a government warning to do so. (ANI)