Shariatpur battlefield again: Over 100 crude bombs detonated as two rival groups clash in Zajira
The incident follows another high-profile clash that occurred between two groups in Zajira’s Bilashpur Union on 5 April, during which over 100 crude bombs were also detonated
A violent clash broke out yet again in Shariatpur's Zajira Upazila yesterday (13 April), but this time in the Chabbishpara area of Joynagar Union, with more than 100 crude bombs reportedly detonated during the fight over establishing dominance between two rival groups.
At least two people were injured, including a 19-year-old youth who sustained a serious injury to his wrist when a bomb over his hand.
The incident follows another high-profile clash that occurred between two groups in the Durbadanga area under Zajira's Bilashpur Union on 5 April, during which over 100 crude bombs were also detonated.
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A 15-second video of that clash had gone viral on Facebook, showing members of both groups confronting each other in an open field while wielding spears, machetes, and sticks. Some individuals were seen wearing helmets and carrying buckets, from which they were throwing explosive devices. Loud explosions and smoke could be seen and heard in the footage.
The recurrence of such violence has sparked concern.
According to police and local sources, yesterday's clash stemmed from a long-standing rivalry over establishing dominance in the area. One group is said to be led by former Tejgaon College Chhatra League General Secretary Mithun Dhali and local ward member Halim Talukder, both of whom have reportedly gone into hiding following the fall of the Awami League government last year.
In their absence, leadership at the local level has been taken over by Jasim Talukder and Nur Alam Sardar.
Tensions escalated on Saturday night (12 April) when supporters of Jasim Talukder allegedly assaulted a man named Sajal Chokdar, a follower of the rival group. By yesterday noon, both sides had mobilised with bombs and sharp weapons.
One bomb exploded on the hand of one Sabbir Khalasi, 19, a supporter of Jasim Talukder, causing deep injuries to his wrist. He was later rushed to Dhaka for treatment.
The hour-long clash yesterday saw both sides engaging in chases and counter-chases, with crude bombs exploding intermittently. Police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and Bangladesh Army personnel later intervened to bring the situation under control.
Following the clash, joint forces comprising army, RAB, and police launched an operation in the area, but no weapons were recovered, nor were any individuals detained.
Local said a large number of local men have gone into hiding fearing arrest, which made it difficult to obtain statements from the rival groups. Their mobile phones were also found switched off.
Zajira Police Station Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Dulal Akand confirmed the clash over establishing dominance in Joynagar. "Many crude bombs were detonated. Upon receiving information, security forces reached the spot and brought the situation under control."
"A joint operation was later conducted. The situation is now stable, and efforts are underway to identify and catch those involved," he added.
No case had been filed with the police till the time this report was filed.
