Two killed in rival groups clash in Cumilla

Two people were killed in a clash between rival groups involving gunfire and machete attacks in Nangalkot upazila of Cumilla, following a long-standing dispute. The incident took place around 12:30 pm on Friday in Aliyara village under Boxganj union.

The deceased were identified as Delwar Hossain Nayan and Md Abdur Razzak, both residents of Aliyara village.

Local sources said a long-running dispute had existed between the groups led by Abul Khayer, member, and Saleh Ahmad, member, in the area. The two groups had clashed several times in the past. When violence erupted again on Friday, Delwar Hossain Nayan and Md Abdur Razzak were killed.

During the clash, 10 to 15 others were seriously injured and were admitted to Cumilla Medical College Hospital.

Officer-in-charge of Nangalkot Police Station Arifur Rahman said at around 3:00 pm on Friday that the two victims were shot and hacked to death. After receiving the information, members of the police and army went to the spot and brought the situation under control.

He added that the dispute between the two groups was long-standing, and police and army personnel have been deployed in the area amid fears of further clashes.

It may be recalled that last year, Md Alauddin, 55, a Union Parishad member from South Aliyara village under Boxganj union, was killed over the same rivalry.