Dhaka is a battle zone. This morning, paramilitary border guards, known as the The Bangladesh Rifles, staged a revolt, angered by low pay, poor working conditions, and perceived discrimination. A gun battle ensued between the Bangladesh Rifles, or BDR, and the Bangladeshi army, and several army officers were taken hostage. Dhaka-based photographer Jessica Lim sent these photos of the scene unfolding just outside her door. Click on any image to begin the slideshow.
-
- As the Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) revolt over low wages and poor working conditions, this army soldier stands ready near the entrance to Zitagola, the section of Dhaka where where the BDR is based.
-
- More army soldiers arrive at the entrance to Zitagola.
-
- A child attending a school near BDR headquarters is carried to safety by her parents.
-
- A white flag is carried by army soldiers as they attempt to make contact with the BDR to begin negotiations.
-
- As the chaos spreads, residents lock up their houses and shops to prevent looting.
-
- Army soldiers taking a break after hours of waiting for the results of negotiations between representatives from the BDR and the government.
-
- A crowd of spectators that had gathered near the BDR Headquarters rushes to safety as gun shots are heard.
