Amid the government’s directives to law enforcers and the local administration not to do excesses with the general people, two photojournalists were physically assaulted by a policeman for taking photos of a campaign to prevent coronavirus transmission.

The victim – Shafin Ahmed of Dainik Desh Janapad and Nasir Uddin of Dainik Dakhiner Muk – said a policeman beat them up without any reasons while taking photos at Barisal University area on Friday evening.

Ratul, also the general secretary of Barishal Photojournalist Association, said  a team led by Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mosharraf  Hossain was conducting a campaign to raise awareness about coronavirus.

A policeman, wearing a mask and without an insignia, approached them and asked who they were. As soon as they said they were photojournalists, the policeman started beating them up.

Barishal Press Club President Manvendra Botbal and General Secretary SM Zakir Hossain condemned the incident and demanded punishment of the accused policeman.

Barishal Journalists’ Union, National Daily Bureau Chief Association Barishal, Barishal Television Media Association, Barishal Electronics Media Journalists Association and Barishal Photojournalists Unity Council have also protested against the incident.

Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mosharraf  Hossain lamented the incident and said he did not instruct police to beat the journalist.

Barishal Deputy Commissioner SM Ajiar Rahman said the administration will do everything to ensure the protection of journalists. He promised to take proper action against anyone responsible.

Barishal Metropolitan Police Commissioner Md Shahabuddin Khan said police have been directed to behave well with everyone. “Misbehaving with anyone is not desirable,” he said, adding that he had heard about the incident.

He said they would identify the accused policeman and punish him.