Brahmanbaria city was thrown into panic on Thursday evening, 27 November, when a long-standing territorial rivalry escalated into a sudden outbreak of gunfire at the busy Kandipara junction. Three people were injured when one group allegedly opened fire indiscriminately on their rivals, creating chaos across the densely populated area.
Eyewitnesses reported that a group had gathered at Kandipara junction around dusk when members of the opposing faction suddenly appeared and began firing without warning. The loud gunshots caused immediate panic: shopkeepers rushed to close their shutters, pedestrians scattered, and vehicles screeched to a halt as the street descended into confusion.
The victims of the attack were identified as Nazmul Ahmed Tutul, 36, Shihab, 30, and Saju Mia, all residents of the Kandipara area. Local residents acted quickly, helping the injured and rushing them to Brahmanbaria District Sadar Hospital for treatment. Tutul and Shihab were admitted with multiple rubber-bullet injuries, while Saju Mia received preliminary treatment for a gunshot wound and was kept under observation.
A brief overview of the victims:
| Name | Age | Area | Injury Type | Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nazmul Ahmed Tutul | 36 | Kandipara | Rubber-bullet wounds | Admitted to District Sadar Hospital |
| Shihab | 30 | Kandipara | Rubber-bullet wounds | Admitted to District Sadar Hospital |
| Saju Mia | — | Kandipara | Gunshot injury | Under observation |
Md. Azharul Islam, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Brahmanbaria Sadar Model Police Station, confirmed the incident, describing it as a result of a prolonged rivalry between two groups competing for territorial dominance in the area. “There has been tension between these two groups for some time,” he said. “This evening, while one side was at the junction, the opposing group arrived and opened fire indiscriminately, injuring three individuals.”
OC Azharul added that police are investigating whether the dispute involves deeper motives, such as financial conflicts, criminal networks, or other vested interests. “We are working to identify all parties involved, and those responsible will face legal consequences,” he said.
At the hospital, Dr. Nur Ibne Bin Sifat, on duty, reported that two victims sustained multiple rubber-bullet injuries. “They have been admitted for close monitoring. Their conditions are stable, but they require observation to ensure no complications arise,” he said.
Meanwhile, tension continues to grip Kandipara and neighboring areas. Residents say that what began as minor disputes over dominance has escalated over the past months into more frequent and violent confrontations. Many fear that, without decisive intervention by authorities, the situation could deteriorate further.
In response, additional police forces have been deployed to prevent any further outbreaks of violence. Streets remain quieter than usual, with residents avoiding outdoor activities due to safety concerns.
Thursday’s shooting has once again highlighted the dangers of unchecked rivalries and the rapid escalation of local disputes into violent incidents. Community members are calling for stronger law enforcement and preventive measures to restore peace and ensure public safety in the area.