Clash, arson and vandalism erupt in Cox's Bazar's Pekua

A dispute over an alleged mobile phone theft triggered multiple rounds of clashes, arson attacks and vehicle vandalism in Pekua’s Shilkhali Union on Saturday night (May 9), leaving several people injured and creating panic in the area.

Locals said the violence stemmed from an earlier incident in which a young man from the Andhakhal area was handed over to police about six months ago on theft allegations. After being released on bail recently, he and his associates allegedly returned seeking revenge, escalating tensions in the area.

Eyewitnesses reported that clashes broke out in several phases from Saturday afternoon, during which a group of attackers allegedly led by a local figure targeted families linked to the earlier complaint.

At least four to five CNG-run auto-rickshaws were vandalised during the violence, causing significant damage, residents said.

In a further escalation, attackers set fire to the house of one Shamsu, son of the late Sabbir Ahmed of Ward 3 in Shilkhali, around 9:00 pm on Saturday. The arson attack deepened panic across the locality.

Several people from both sides were injured in the clashes and are currently undergoing treatment at local healthcare facilities.

Confirming the incident, Officer-in-Charge Md. Mehedi Hasan said police rushed to the scene after receiving information and brought the situation under control.

He said the incidents appeared to be linked to personal and long-standing enmity, adding that the cases of vandalism and arson are being investigated seriously and legal action will be taken against those responsible.