Bangladesh’s prolonged Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, has reportedly stepped down and left the country amid ongoing protests. The long-serving leader boarded a military helicopter, according to a staff member, after crowds defied a national curfew and stormed the Prime Minister’s Palace in Dhaka.

Nearly 300 people have been killed during weeks of protests, which authorities have attempted to suppress. Following a night of deadly violence, where close to 100 individuals lost their lives on Sunday, tensions have been high as demonstrators called for a march towards Dhaka, while the military prepared to address the nation.

However, reports indicated earlier in the afternoon that the atmosphere in the streets shifted to one of celebration after news of Hasina’s departure spread. General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the head of the military, has canceled his planned speech and is now engaging in negotiations with major political parties, including the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

This is a developing story. Further updates will follow…