2 autorickshaw drivers injured in Ctg shootings, gang rivalry suspected
Police say the shootings are initially believed to be linked to an ongoing power struggle between two local rival groups.
Two battery-run autorickshaw drivers were shot in separate incidents in Lohagara upazila of Chattogram last evening (18 May).
The injured are Akib, 20, from the Natun Para area of Barahatia union, and Kaiyum Sharif, 19, from the Baraghona area of Chunati union, according to police.
Police said both the injured were initially taken to Lohagara Upazila Health Complex before being transferred to Chittagong Medical College Hospital for further treatment.
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Ariful Islam Siddiqui, additional superintendent of police (Satkania Circle), said the shootings are initially believed to be linked to an ongoing power struggle between two local rival groups.
"Preliminary investigations suggest that the two injured men may be associated with the 'Toufiq group.' A long-running dispute has existed between the 'Toufiq group' and the 'Rafique group,'" he said.
He added that police visited the scenes, spoke to witnesses and the injured men.
Police are working to identify those responsible and bring them to justice, the officer said.
Injured Akib's relatives alleged that a local armed group had demanded Tk20,000 in extortion money from him.
He had reportedly paid Tk3,000, but was being threatened over the remaining amount.
According to the family, he was attacked while carrying passengers through the Amirbaper Para area. He sustained gunshot wounds to his stomach and hand.
Kaiyum, the other injured, said he was shot from behind while returning after dropping off passengers in the Harighona area.
He sustained multiple gunshot injuries to his back, he added.
