1 killed, 25 injured in Bagerhat clash; 40 houses torched

One person was killed and 25 others injured in a clash between two rival groups over land and local dominance in Bagerhat's Chitalmari upazila, with around 40 houses and shops set ablaze.

The violence broke out between the Sheikh and Biswas groups in Chingri village yesterday (26 March) evening and continued for several hours until late at night, according to police and local sources.

Additional Superintendent of Police (Sadar Circle) Md Shamim Hossain confirmed the fatality and said one suspect has been arrested so far. Drives are underway to detain others involved.

According to police, the clash stemmed from a long-standing dispute over char land on the Madhumati River between the two groups. The situation escalated following an altercation involving a young man earlier in the day.

The deceased, identified as Rajib Sheikh, 25, was shot during the clash. Police said his body has been sent to Khulna Medical College Hospital for an autopsy.

Law enforcers said at least 25 people were injured, while around 40 houses and shops were vandalised, looted and set on fire.

Police, army personnel and Fire Service units were later deployed to bring the situation under control. Additional forces have been deployed to prevent further violence, officials said, adding that the area remained tense today (27 March).

Fire Service officials said it took nearly three hours to bring the fire under control, with multiple units working at the scene.

Locals said panic persists in the area amid fears of further retaliation.