UPDF Member Shot Dead in Rangamati

A member of the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF) was shot dead by unidentified armed assailants in the remote Shuknachhara Jora Bridge area of Baghaichhari upazila in Rangamati district on Saturday morning.

The victim was identified as Hegera Chakma, also known as Lettobap, aged 50. According to local sources, the incident occurred at approximately 6:00am on 9 May in the border-adjacent region of Baghaichhari, an area known for its difficult terrain and limited transport access.

Residents and local sources stated that Hegera Chakma was present near the Marishya Jora Bridge area for organisational activities when a group of approximately 10 to 12 armed men launched a sudden attack. The assailants reportedly opened indiscriminate fire targeting him directly. He died at the scene from gunshot wounds.

Following the killing, fear and tension spread across the surrounding localities. However, no organisation or group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, and the motive behind the killing was not officially disclosed.

Local residents said Hegera Chakma was known in the area as a collector for the UPDF (Prosit Group), a faction of the regional political organisation active in the Chattogram Hill Tracts. No additional official information regarding his role or activities was released by authorities.

Officer-in-Charge Tofazzal Hossain of Sajek Police Station confirmed the incident. He stated that the location of the attack was situated in a highly remote and inaccessible area, which delayed immediate access for law enforcement personnel.

Speaking from the scene at around 10:30am, the police official confirmed that the body of Hegera Chakma had been recovered. He added that legal procedures relating to the incident were underway.

Law enforcement authorities have not yet announced any arrests in connection with the killing. Further investigation and procedural steps are continuing.

The Chattogram Hill Tracts, including parts of Rangamati and Baghaichhari, have previously witnessed incidents of armed violence involving regional groups and rival factions. However, officials have not linked the latest incident to any particular organisation or conflict.