Bandarban: The clashes between the joint force and Myanmar separatist group Arakan Army left one dead and two others injured in the district.

The incident took place at Seprupara of Borothalipara union when the joint force was launching operation at the border area of Bilaichhari in Rangamati and Ruma in Bandarban to recover two abducted tourists and their guide.

On Sunday noon, the joint force raided a secret place of Arakan Army, triggering gunfight between them. Staff of Ruma Zone Lieutenant Rafi said the firing was going on since morning with intervals and continued throughout the day.

A member of village defense party was killed in gun-fighting. The victim is identified as Menson Mrow, 36. Two injured persons are a member of Army corporal Md Abul Kashem and a member of Ansar Battalion Md Hannan.

The injured were taken to Combined Military Hospital after recovering them from the spot. Although they received bullets, they are out of danger, Army sources said.

After the incident, additional army has been deployed in the area.

Arakan Liberation party abducted two tourists and their guide from the border area at Ruma on October 3. Following the incident, the joint force has been carrying out operation in the area to rescue the abducted tourists.

The joint force recovered huge arms and ammunition from those areas on Friday.

Army sources said the operation would be continued until the abducted tourists are rescued.

RI