SONARGAON, NARAYANGANJ, Apr 3: At least 10 people were injured, two critically, in a violent clash between two rival groups over local dominance in Sonargaon Upazila of Narayanganj on Thursday morning.
The incident took place around 10:30 am in Panchani Shantinagar area of Pirojpur union. Both sides attacked each other with spears, machetes, rods, sticks, and brickbats, turning the area into a battlefield. Several shops and houses were vandalised and looted during the clash.
The injured include Akhtar Hossain, 54, Nurul Haque, 50, Faruk Hossain, 40, Rokhsana Begum, 30, Taslima Begum, 40, Kawsar Mia, 32, and Rabeya Begum, 28. Akhtar and Nurul were critically injured after being struck with spears. They were rushed to Sonargaon Upazila Health Complex and Dhaka Medical College Hospital.
Police and RAB personnel, led by Sonargaon OC Mohibullah, brought the situation under control. Additional forces have been deployed to prevent further violence.
Locals and police sources said the clash stemmed from longstanding rivalry between supporters of Rasel and Abdul Hamid over control of the area and contracts linked to nearby industrial establishments. Both groups have engaged in repeated confrontations in recent months, including attacks, vandalism, and looting.
Residents said tension escalated after Rasel's supporter was allegedly assaulted and robbed of his phone at Panchani Bazaar. Soon after, both sides mobilised armed men and clashed.
Police said those involved in the violence are being identified and will face legal action. The area remains tense, with locals fearful of renewed clashes.
