Three killed in Khagrachhari protest over schoolgirl's rape

At least three people were killed and three others injured on Sunday, September 28, in a clash between Jumma students and locals with law enforcement in Guimara upazila of Khagrachhari during a protest over the rape of a schoolgirl.

The bodies were kept at Khagrachhari Sadar Hospital, confirmed Ahsan Habib Palash, deputy inspector general of police (Chattogram Range), speaking to the media in the evening.

As the indefinite road blockade by Jumma students and locals entered its third day, tension gripped the area. The ministry of home affairs expressed regret over the incident, stating in a press release that three hill people were killed in an attack by miscreants in Guimara. It added that 13 army personnel, three policemen, and several others were injured. The ministry assured that those responsible would face swift investigation and legal action, and no perpetrator would be spared.

Civil surgeon Mohammad Saber of Khagrachhari also confirmed the deaths, saying three bodies were brought dead to the hospital and would be sent for post-mortem examination. Four others injured in the clash were admitted to the hospital.

Since morning, no local or long-haul vehicles operated in Khagrachhari. Additional security forces were deployed across the town, with shops and businesses closed.

The unrest began after the gang rape of an eighth-grade schoolgirl around 9pm on Tuesday, September 23, while she was returning home after private tuition. Her father filed a case with Khagrachhari Sadar Police Station the following day. Suspect Shoyon Shil was arrested and placed on a six-day remand by the court.