Exchange of fire between law enforcement-protesters in Sajek

Clashes involving gunfire and chases between law enforcement personnel and armed individuals broke out in Sajek Union of Rangamati’s Baghaichhari upazila on Thursday, as a road blockade left at least 3,000 tourists stranded in the popular hill destination.

The clash began around 11AM in the Uzobazar area while protesters were enforcing a blockade on the Sajek road.

The Sajek Public Rights Protection Committee and the Sajek Karbari Association jointly announced the third round of an indefinite road blockade on Wednesday afternoon. 

Protesters took positions along the road in the Uzobazar area from Thursday morning.

At around 11AM, members of law enforcement agencies attempted to remove barricades from the road to help tourists stranded in Sajek travel safely towards Khagrachhari.

Local sources said protesters and armed individuals obstructed the move, leading to the initial exchange of brickbats. The situation subsequently escalated into an exchange of gunfire between the two sides, accompanied by chases.

The blockade and ensuing gunfire have disrupted movement along the road, leaving at least 3,000 tourists unable to leave Sajek.

Further details about casualties, injuries or the current security situation were not immediately available.