UPDF member killed in armed attack in Sajek

A member of the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF) was shot dead in an armed attack in Baghaichhari of Rangamati’s Sajek area on Saturday morning.

The deceased was identified as Hegera Chakma, 50, a resident of Retkaba area under Ward No. 4 of Sajek Union.

According to locals, he was attacked around 6:45am in the Shuknochhara area when he was heading out for organisational work. An armed group of 10–12 assailants allegedly opened fire, killing him on the spot.

Local Union Parishad member Doyadhon Chakma confirmed the killing, saying the attackers’ identities remain unknown.

Sajek Union Parishad Chairman Atulal Chakma said the area is a sensitive border zone between Sajek and Dighinala, where rival factions of UPDF are active, including UPDF (Prasit) and UPDF (Democratic).

UPDF spokesperson Angya Marma alleged that the victim was a party worker and blamed “masked assailants” for the attack.

Tofazzal Hossain, officer-in-charge (OC) of Sajek Police Station, told reporters that police had just received information about a shooting death. “We are preparing to leave for the scene from the police station. Further details will be known after we reach the spot,” he said.