Chitalmari Violence Leaves One Dead

A violent confrontation between two rival factions over local dominance in Chitalmari upazila of Bagerhat has resulted in the death of one young man, left at least 15 others injured, and triggered widespread arson, looting and destruction of property during several hours of unrest.

The clashes broke out on Thursday evening (26 March) in Chingaria village under Kolatala union and continued intermittently until around 9pm. The violence involved supporters of the so-called Bishwas group and Sheikh group, two long-standing local factions reportedly locked in disputes over land control, influence and political authority in the area.

One Dead, Dozens Injured

The deceased was identified as Rajib Sheikh (20), son of Faruk Sheikh from the same village. Local sources said he sustained critical injuries during the confrontation between the two groups and later died as a result.

At least 15 others were injured in the violence, with several requiring treatment at nearby medical facilities. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as the situation escalated, with groups reportedly engaging in coordinated attacks across different parts of the village.

Homes Set Ablaze and Widespread Damage

Residents alleged that during the clashes, attackers looted property and set fire to at least 10 houses, forcing multiple families to flee their homes in fear for their lives. The spread of flames caused significant damage to residential structures, while the atmosphere remained tense throughout the night.

Fire Service units were deployed to the scene to extinguish the blaze, but their initial efforts were reportedly hindered by the intensity of the fire and continuing disturbances in surrounding areas.

Security forces, including police personnel, initially struggled to bring the situation under control as large groups engaged in rapid and violent exchanges across the locality.

Casualties and Damage Overview

Military Intervention Restores Order

As the violence intensified beyond the capacity of local law enforcement, army personnel were deployed alongside additional police reinforcements. The combined presence of security forces eventually brought the situation under control and prevented further escalation.

Authorities confirmed that order had been restored later in the night, although tensions in the area remained high following the incident.

Deep-Rooted Local Rivalry

Local residents said the unrest stems from a prolonged rivalry between the group led by Saeed Bishwas and supporters of retired police officer Sheikh Monjurul Alam. The dispute is understood to centre on land disputes, local influence and competing political interests within the region.

The latest outbreak of violence is believed to be linked to earlier clashes between the same factions. On 28 January, a previous confrontation in the Liuchhtola area resulted in the death of Nazim Uddin, a member of the Bishwas group, further deepening hostility between the two sides.

Law Enforcement Response

Following the incident, Bagerhat Superintendent of Police Md Hasan Chowdhury visited the affected area to oversee security operations and assess the situation on the ground.

Chitalmari Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md Nazrul Islam confirmed the death and said multiple homes had been set on fire during the clashes. He added that additional police and military personnel have been deployed to prevent further violence and maintain public order.

Authorities have launched an investigation to identify those responsible for the attacks, while efforts continue to restore stability in the affected locality.

Continuing Tension

Although the immediate violence has been contained, residents remain fearful of renewed clashes. Security forces continue to maintain a strong presence in the area as a precautionary measure.

Officials have urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement and avoid actions that could further inflame tensions in an already volatile environment.