30 injured in clash between rival groups in Brahmanbaria

At least 30 people were injured in a clash between two rival groups in Nabinagar upazila of Brahmanbaria today (8 August), police said.

According to police and local residents, the clash, stemming from a longstanding dispute over local dominance and other issues, took place intermittently from around 10am to 2pm in Tiara village under Bitghar union.

Although the identities of the injured were not immediately known, they were taken to Nabinagar Upazila Health Complex and Brahmanbaria General Hospital for treatment.

Police said a dispute has been ongoing between supporters of Shishu Mia and Abul Hossain Mia, both residents of Tiara village. The two groups have been involved in several clashes over the dispute in the past.

On Friday afternoon, three supporters of Abul Hossain were allegedly stopped and beaten by supporters of Shishu Mia while returning to Tiara from Bitghar Bazar, police and locals said.

The incident triggered today’s clash, with supporters of both groups armed with locally made weapons engaging in a violent confrontation, leaving at least 30 people injured.

Several houses belonging to both sides were also allegedly attacked, vandalised and looted during the clash.

Brahmanbaria Sadar Circle Additional Superintendent of Police MM Rakib Ur Raja said police had brought the situation under control and that it was currently calm.

“Additional police have been deployed in the village to prevent any further clashes,” he said.