Worker Killed, Several Injured in Nilphamari EPZ Unrest

A young worker was killed and more than a dozen others sustained injuries in a violent clash with law enforcement at Uttara Export Processing Zone (EPZ) in Nilphamari on Tuesday morning. The incident followed tensions over layoffs and sudden factory closure.

The deceased, identified as 20-year-old Habib Islam, was employed at Equ International, according to police sources.

Witnesses and police officers said tensions had been brewing after nearly 50 workers were dismissed from a factory named Evergreen inside the EPZ. The unrest escalated when management announced an indefinite shutdown of the factory without clearing due wages, posting a closure notice on the main gate.

Around 8:00 am, agitated workers gathered in front of the factory and blocked the Nilphamari–Saidpur road. Security forces, including police and army personnel, moved in to disperse the protest. Confrontation broke out soon after.

Habib and several others were rushed to Nilphamari General Hospital, where doctors declared him dead. Medical officers confirmed a chest wound on the body, though the exact cause of death will be determined after autopsy.

Injured workers alleged that police had fired on them during the clashes. Several of the wounded also claimed they were hit by bullets, and X-ray tests have been recommended to assess their condition.

Habib’s family said he had completed his night shift at another factory and was on his way home when he was caught up in the violence.

Police confirmed the death and said an investigation is underway into the incident.