Two journalists were assaulted while covering an event at the Barishal court premises yesterday afternoon, with assailants also setting fire to a motorcycle, eyewitnesses and victims said.

The injured journalists, N Amin Russell and Monirul Islam, who work for two local dailies in Barishal, were admitted to Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital for treatment.

According to the victims, the attack was led by Barishal District Chhatra Dal's Organising Secretary, Sohel Rari, and his associates.

Amin said they were reporting on an incident involving the confinement of some accused individuals when they were ambushed near the main gate of the District and Sessions Judge Court while leaving on a motorcycle.

The journalists alleged that Sohel and his group accused them of having links with Awami League before physically assaulting them and setting their motorcycle on fire. Police later rescued them.

Following the attack, local journalists staged a protest, blocking Fazlul Huq Avenue near the court and demanding justice.

Law enforcement, including police and army personnel, arrived at the scene, assuring swift action against the perpetrators.

The journalists withdrew their protest after receiving assurances.

Sohel denied any involvement, calling the allegations a "political conspiracy" against him.Barishal Metropolitan Police Commissioner Md Shafiqul Islam said, "We have identified Sohel Rari and others involved in the attack, and an operation is ongoing to bring them to justice."