Violent Clash Disrupts Traffic on Dhaka–Chattogram Highway

A violent incident occurred on Tuesday morning when a highway police patrol vehicle was attacked and vandalised in the Nimsar Bazar area of Burichang Upazila, Cumilla along the Dhaka–Chattogram Highway. The confrontation, which took place at approximately 11:00 a.m., caused significant tension in the locality and temporarily disrupted vehicular movement on one of the country’s busiest transport corridors.

According to eyewitness accounts and local sources, a patrol team from the highway police was conducting a routine enforcement drive near the vegetable market adjacent to Nimsar Bazar. The operation targeted illegal three-wheeled vehicles, which have long been accused of operating on the highway despite restrictions, contributing to traffic congestion and increasing the risk of road accidents.

Tensions escalated after several such vehicles were seized by law enforcement officers. Drivers and associated individuals reportedly became agitated and quickly mobilised others in the vicinity. The situation deteriorated when a group allegedly launched a coordinated attack on the police team, throwing bricks and stones at the officers and striking the patrol vehicle. The vehicle sustained significant damage during the assault.

The sudden violence created panic among local traders and bystanders. Shopkeepers and pedestrians were seen rushing to safer areas as the situation intensified. For a brief period, traffic flow on the highway was severely affected, with vehicles stranded on both sides of the incident site.

Additional police units were subsequently deployed to the scene. Their rapid intervention helped restore order, dispersing the attackers and gradually normalising the flow of traffic. Authorities confirmed that the situation was brought under control without further escalation.

A senior officer from the highway police stated that the incident occurred during a lawful enforcement drive against unauthorised vehicles. He condemned the attack, describing it as an act carried out by an organised group, and confirmed that efforts were underway to identify those involved. Legal action would be taken once the suspects were confirmed, he added.

Local administration officials emphasised that enforcement against illegal vehicles on highways would be further strengthened to ensure road discipline and public safety. They also indicated that additional security measures and surveillance would be introduced to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Incident Overview

The incident has sparked widespread discussion locally, highlighting ongoing challenges in maintaining discipline on major highways and ensuring the safety of law enforcement personnel engaged in routine operations.