At least three people were killed and as many as injured in a clash between law enforcers and Jumma Chhatra Janata in Guimara upazila of Khagrachhari on Sunday evening, during a protest over the rape of a schoolgirl.
Identities of the deceased could not be known immediately.
Confirming the matter, Deputy Inspector General of Chattogram Range Police Ahsan Habib Palash said details about whose gunfire caused the deaths and how the incident unfolded remained unknown.
Khagrachari district’s Civil Surgeon, Mohammad Saber, told the media that three individuals – all men – were brought dead to Khagrachari Sadar Hospital.
“The bodies were kept at the morgue and their autopsies will be done on Monday morning,” he said.
Besides, four injured individuals from Guimara were undergoing treatment at the hospital, he added.
The latest incident followed an indefinite blockade in the hill district, which was enforced by the Jumma Chhatra Janata in protest against the rape.
During the blockade, several shops were torched at Ramesu Bazar around 1pm on Sunday. Besides, several houses adjacent to the market were also gutted.
This incident triggered panic among residents with an uneasy condition prevailing in the area.
At noon, incidents of chase and counter-chase took place between law enforcers and blockade supporters. Sounds of gunshots were also heard then.
In an official statement issued Sunday evening, the Ministry of Home Affairs expressed deep sorrow over the killings and sympathy for those injured, including an army major, 13 army personnel, the officer-in-charge of Guimara Police Station, three other policemen, and several others.
The ministry assured that the perpetrators would be brought to justice following a proper investigation. It also urged all concerned to remain calm and patient until legal measures are taken.
Section 144 has already been enforced in Khagrachhari municipality, Sadar upazila, and Guimara upazila, prohibiting public gatherings.
The unrest stems from the reported rape of a schoolgirl on 23 September in the Singinala area of Khagrachhari Sadar.
Her father filed a case with Sadar Police Station against three unidentified individuals.
The next morning, police, with army support, arrested a suspect, Shayan Shil, who was also placed on remand.
LND/SAE
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