4 killed in Khagrachhari gunfight between JSS and UPDF: Police

Police have reported that four people were killed in a gunfight between two groups over territorial control in the remote Narai Chhara area of Dighinala Upazila in Khagrachhari.

The clash took place around 8:30pm on Friday night between members of the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF) and the Parbatya Chattogram Jana Samhati Samiti (JSS).

Dighinala Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md. Zakaria confirmed the incident, stating that the clash occurred between two groups - one led by UPDF's military commander Biplob Chakma, with 40-45 members, and the other led by JSS's military commander Joydev Chakma, consisting of another 35-40 people. A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, leading to the death of four members of UPDF’s military wing, the "Gonomukti Fouj" or "People’s Liberation Army." Several others were also reported injured.

However, police have not yet been able to identify the victims. The law and order situation at the site is reported to be under control.

Meanwhile, UPDF district organizer Angya Marma denied the incident, stating, "No such event took place."

In a statement to the media on Saturday, he said, “We have no knowledge of any such gunfight, and as a democratic organization, UPDF does not have any military wing called 'Gonomukti Fouj' or 'People's Liberation Army.' This claim is entirely baseless and imaginary."