40 injured in clash over supremacy in Sunamganj

At least 40 people have been injured in a clash between two groups over establishing supremacy in Chhatak, Sunamganj. The hour-long clash occurred on Saturday morning, May 23, in the Ameratol village of North Khurma union.

Among the injured, six have been identified as Aktar Hossain, 50; Tajul Islam, 55; Shahjahan Mia, 60; Muktar Ali, 55; Kenu Mia, 35; and Salek Mia, 23. A total of 29 injured, including these six, have been admitted to Sylhet Osmani Medical College Hospital. Another nine injured are undergoing treatment at Chhatak Upazila Health Complex.

Local sources said there had been a long-standing dispute between lawyer Monir Uddin and Kofil Uddin over supremacy in the village. Several cases have been filed against both sides at the police station and court. Foysal Ahmed, brother of Kofil Uddin, was recently made an accused in one of the ongoing cases. Tensions rose after Foysal came home for Eid-ul-Azha. On Saturday morning, the two groups clashed with sharp weapons and sticks, engaging in chasing and stone pelting for nearly an hour.

Police rushed to the scene and brought the situation under control.

Chhatak Police Station OC Mohammad Mizanur Rahman said forces were sent to the spot immediately after receiving information. Police have brought the situation under control. Preliminary investigation suggests the clash was sparked by previous enmity. The situation at the scene is now normal. Legal action is being taken.