Police have detained security guard Ripon Mondol over allegedly brutally assaulting a street child in Mirpur, Dhaka, reportedly for stealing and eating a piece of bread. The child, who was subjected to the assault, has been admitted to a hospital for treatment.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) of Mirpur Division Saleh Muhammad Zakaria confirmed the matter on Monday (October 5) evening.

He said Ripon Mondol allegedly assaulted the child brutally at Mirpur-1 on Saturday (October 3) night. He is currently in police custody, while the child has been hospitalised for treatment.

ADC Saleh Muhammad Zakaria said, “The rule of law must be upheld. Police will take immediate action against any form of brutality. There will be no leniency in such incidents.”

Earlier on Sunday (October 4), a video showing the child being beaten was circulated on social media. The incident drew widespread reactions after the video went viral.

The video showed a man beating the child. Although the child tried to protect himself, the attacker continued the assault. At one point, a person nearby stepped forward and attempted to rescue the child. The video of the incident was later shared widely on social media.

According to volunteers working with street children, many children living on the streets in different parts of the capital face shortages of food, shelter and security. Due to family separation, poverty and other circumstances, many children sleep on the streets and depend on assistance from people or food collected in various ways.

Even if a child is accused of taking food, there is no justification for physically assaulting them. If there is an allegation against a child, appropriate action should be taken through the legal process.

Police have taken Ripon Mondol into custody and arranged medical treatment for the child. They said they remain vigilant to ensure the rule of law and take immediate action in cases of this nature.