Violence in Khagrachari Leaves At Least Three National Minority Members Dead
Violence flared up once more in Khagrachari on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of at least three national minority community members. The unrest followed an ongoing blockade in the hill district, which was organised to protest the rape of a 12-year-old Marma girl.
Khagrachari district Civil Surgeon Mohammad Saber confirmed the deaths, telling New Age that three individuals were brought dead to Khagrachari Sadar Hospital at around 5:30 pm on Sunday after being transported from Guimara.
“The bodies are kept at the hospital for autopsy,” he said, adding that four others injured in the violence were also admitted to the hospital.
In a statement, the home affairs ministry expressed deep sorrow over the killings, attributing them to an attack by “miscreants.” The statement further noted that 13 army personnel, including a major, along with three police officers, were among those injured during the violence in Guimara. Several other individuals were also reported to have sustained injuries in the incident.
The ministry assured that legal action would be taken against those involved in the violence following a swift investigation. “No culprit will be spared. Until then, the ministry has requested all concerned to remain patient and calm,” the statement added.
A tense atmosphere continues to grip Khagrachari, where an indefinite road blockade is being enforced by the Jumma Chhatra Janata. The blockade, a response to the rape case, entered its third day on Sunday.
Clashes had erupted on Saturday in Khagrachari town between members of the national minority community and Bengali residents, resulting in several injuries.
The rape incident took place on September 23 when the 12-year-old Marma girl was returning home from private tuition around 9:00 pm. Her father filed a case with Khagrachari Sadar Police Station the following day, accusing three unidentified men.
So far, police have arrested one suspect, Shayan Shil, who has been placed under six-day remand by a Khagrachari court.
