Cox’s Bazar, Teknaf – In a troubling escalation of pre-election tensions, gunfire was fired at the campaign vehicle of the Dhanshish (Rice Ear) party candidate in Ali Khali, Hnila Union, Teknaf, on the night of Thursday, 5 February. The incident occurred near Camp 25 of the Rohingya settlements in the area.
According to local reports, five people sustained injuries in the attack, including both Rohingya and Bangladeshi citizens. The injured include two Rohingya men and three Bangladeshi residents, with ages ranging from 11 to 38.
The victims have been identified as follows:
| Name | Age | Nationality | Parent/Family | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rahman | 36 | Rohingya | Son of Nur Hossain | Injured during the shooting |
| Mohammad Zisan | 13 | Rohingya | Son of Nurul Haque | Minor victim |
| Bachcha Mia | 38 | Bangladeshi | Son of late Vekka Mia | Local resident |
| Nusrat Jahan | 18 | Bangladeshi | Daughter of Abdul Jalil | Local resident |
| Shahabuddin | 11 | Bangladeshi | Son of Nur Islam | Minor victim |
Eyewitnesses stated that the campaign vehicle, en route through Ali Khali for election canvassing, was suddenly targeted by gunfire. The identity of the assailants remains unknown, and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. The frightened local community quickly intervened, rushing the wounded to nearby hospitals for urgent medical treatment.
OC of Teknaf Model Police Station, Md. Saiful Islam, confirmed the incident, stating that while five individuals sustained injuries in the attack on the election campaign vehicle, the perpetrators have not yet been identified. He added that investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances and motives behind the incident.
This incident highlights rising security concerns in Teknaf ahead of upcoming elections. Local authorities have urged calm, assuring both voters and political parties that heightened security measures will be enforced to prevent further violence. Election campaigns in Rohingya camps are particularly sensitive, given the dense population and the complex social dynamics in these areas.
Residents have expressed deep concern over the safety of both campaigners and civilians, emphasising the need for immediate law enforcement action. Meanwhile, political parties have been urged to conduct their campaigns peacefully, respecting both the law and the welfare of the local population.
The investigation continues as authorities examine CCTV footage, eyewitness accounts, and other evidence to bring those responsible to justice. The incident underscores the fragile nature of electoral security in border regions, where political rivalries can quickly escalate into violence.