Mizanur Rahman Chowdhury, an alleged activist of the Awami League (AL), has been arrested by New York police on charges of assaulting Akhtar Hossain, Member Secretary of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and a member of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus’ entourage traveling to NY on Monday.
The incident occurred at John F. Kennedy (JFK) International Airport, shortly after the Chief Adviser and his delegation landed in New York to attend the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Akhtar Hossain was targeted and struck with eggs as he exited Terminal 8 alongside the Chief Adviser’s entourage around 3:10 p.m. local time, police sources said.
Some Awami League leaders and activists had gathered outside the terminal’s parking area to protest the arrival of Professor Yunus, chanting slogans and waving banners.
As the delegation exited the terminal, the egg attack occurred amidst heightened tension between rival political supporters.
Police arrested Mizanur Rahman Chowdhury 6 hours later from the Jackson Heights neighborhood in connection with the incident.
Authorities have confirmed that further investigations are ongoing, and several other suspects are being sought after. Law enforcement has also conducted searches at the residences of individuals allegedly involved.
Authorities have not yet disclosed whether any formal charges have been filed in court, but the arrest has sparked political debate within the Bangladeshi diaspora in the U.S.
