The situation in Khagrachhari remains tense following days of blockades, rallies, and clashes over the gang rape of a Marma schoolgirl. Demanding exemplary punishment for the perpetrators, protesters under the banner of Jumma Chhatra Janata have enforced an indefinite third phase of road blockades.
Since Sunday morning (September 28), all vehicular movement in Khagrachhari town and surrounding areas has been suspended. No long-distance buses have departed, and locals have largely stayed indoors. However, on Saturday night, about 2,147 stranded tourists in Sajek were escorted to Dhaka under special army protection.
Earlier on Saturday, clashes broke out in several areas including Sadar Upazila Parishad, Mahajan Para, Narikel Bagan, Chengi Square, and Shaheed Kader Road. Law enforcement fired blank shots and tear gas to disperse rival groups. Shops in Swonirvor and Narikel Bagan came under attack during the unrest.
In response, Section 144 has been imposed indefinitely in Khagrachhari municipality, Sadar upazila, and Guimara upazila. Seven platoons of BGB, along with army and police units, have been deployed. Additional forces including APBn have been stationed in key areas.
At least 25 people were injured in the violence, one of them critically and later transferred to Chattogram. Three indigenous youths were arrested at night while allegedly preparing for sabotage at a Buddhist monastery.
Deputy Commissioner ABM Iftekharul Islam Khondker said, “The situation is currently calm but Section 144 will remain in place until stability improves.”
Superintendent of Police Md. Arefin Jewel also confirmed that the overall situation is under control and urged residents to remain patient.
The unrest stems from the September 23 gang rape of an eighth-grade girl in the Singinala area. Police have so far arrested one suspect, Shoyon Shil (19), in connection with the crime.
