Two groups clash over control of illegal drug trade in Ctg's Bakalia, 15 arrested

Police have arrested 15 people after two groups clashed and threw brickbats at each other over control of the illegal drug trade in Chattogram's Bakalia area last night (27 September).

According to a press release issued by Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) today (28 September), the two groups engaged in a clash on the road over establishing dominance.

The clash took place around 11pm on Syed Shah Road, with police preparing to file cases against those arrested under the Anti-Terrorism Act.

Md Habibur Rahman Pramanik, deputy commissioner (South) of the Chattogram Metropolitan Police, told The Business Standard this morning that members of the Murad and Jasim groups clashed over control of the illegal drug trade.

Police rushed to the scene and brought the situation under control, he said, adding that additional forces were deployed in the area.

The DC said police received information from locals about gunshots being heard during the clash.

However, the police have not yet confirmed whether firearms were used and are investigating the matter, the police officer added.

Bakalia Police Station Officer-in-Charge Shahinur Alam, however, said last night that there was no gunfire.

"There was no gunfire. Firecrackers were set off. The sound was caused by stones being thrown at a tin-roofed house," he said.

He said several people from both groups were injured in the clash, but none sustained serious injuries.

A video circulated on social media shows members of the two groups chasing each other and throwing brickbats on the road. Several loud bangs can also be heard in the footage.

Police said the situation is now under control and legal action is being taken against those involved.