33 arrested over clash between police, battery-run rickshaw drivers in Ctg

A total of 33 individuals were arrested today (24 April) in connection with a clash between police and battery-run rickshaw drivers in Chattogram's Bahir Signal area yesterday.

The arrested individuals have been charged with vandalism, arson, and obstructing government activities under the Special Powers Act, 1974.

Aftab Uddin, officer-in-charge of Chandgaon Police Station, confirmed the arrests, saying, "Following the clash, police filed a case under the Special Powers Act, 1974 yesterday night. Later, through raids conducted in various areas, we arrested 33 people involved in the incident."

He added, "The arrested individuals were produced before the court in the afternoon following legal procedures."

The Chattogram Metropolitan Police has launched a crackdown on illegal battery-run rickshaws in the city. Since 1 April, the CMP's Traffic Division has seized over 3,000 rickshaws from different parts of the city.

According to police sources, in protest of the crackdown, drivers staged a demonstration at the Bahir Signal area yesterday morning and blocked the road, forcing a suspension of traffic movement.

When police arrived at the scene, the agitating drivers reportedly hurled brickbats at the police, resulting in a chase and counter-chase situation.

Police fired several rounds of tear gas shells to disperse the protesters. However, a violent clash ensued, leaving at least five people injured, including two police officials.