The aircraft took off from Bangladesh Air Force Base AK Khandaker at 1:06 PM local time for a routine training exercise. Shortly after takeoff, the jet experienced a technical malfunction, leading to its crash into the school premises. The impact caused a massive explosion, setting parts of the building ablaze and sending plumes of smoke into the sky.
Emergency response teams, including eight units from the Bangladesh Armed Forces, Fire Service, and Civil Defense, swiftly arrived at the scene to conduct rescue operations. Many of the injured were students who were attending classes at the time of the crash. They were transported to nearby hospitals, with some in critical condition.
The incident has prompted national mourning and raised concerns about the safety protocols of military training exercises near populated areas. Bangladesh's interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and pledged a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
As the nation grapples with this heartbreaking event, questions arise about the measures in place to prevent such disasters and ensure the safety of civilians in training zones.