Bishwa Ijtema:
3 Killed, Over 100 Injured in Violent Clashes Between Jubair and Saad Factions
Violent clashes erupted between the Jubair and Saad factions over control of the Tongi Bishwa Ijtema grounds, resulting in the deaths of three people and injuries to over 100 others. The clashes began early Wednesday (December 18).
The deceased have been identified as Bacchu Mia (70), a resident of Egarosindu village in Pakundia Upazila, Kishoreganj, and Belal (60) from Beribad area of Dakshinkhan, Dhaka. The identity of the third deceased remains unknown.
Among the injured are Abdur Rouf (55) from Brahmanbaria, Mujibur Rahman (58) from Mymensingh, Abdul Hannan (60), Zahurul Islam (38) from Tongi, Arif (34) from Gopalganj, Faisal (28) from Savar, Toriqul (42) from Narsingdi, Shahed (44) from Chattogram, Ukil Mia (58) from Narsingdi, Pant (55) from Tongi, Khorshed Alam (50), Belal (34) from Keraniganj, Anwar (50) from Narayanganj, Abu Bakar (59), Ariful Islam (50), Anwar (26) from Savar, Anwar (76) from Noakhali, and Forkan Ahmed (35) from Satkhira. The identities of many others injured could not be immediately confirmed.
How the Clash Began
Local sources report that around 3:00 AM, Saad faction members began entering the Ijtema grounds from the western bank of the Turag River via various routes, including the Kamarpara Bridge. At that time, Jubair faction members inside the grounds began pelting stones at them. In response, the Saad faction launched counterattacks, leading to a fierce clash when the Saad faction entered the grounds.
The violent confrontation resulted in numerous injuries and fatalities on both sides.
In a video message, Muaz Bin Noor, a senior influential leader of the Saad faction, claimed, "We are now in control of the Ijtema grounds. Three of our brothers have been martyred in attacks by the Jubair faction." Noor also alleged that several Jubair faction members were detained with knives and sharp weapons.
Casualties and Medical Response
Due to the clashes, the injured and deceased were taken to Tongi Ahsan Ullah Master General Hospital and other nearby medical facilities. Hafizul Islam, Senior Brother at the emergency department of the Tongi hospital, confirmed the casualties, saying, "So far, three people have died, and countless others are injured. Many more are arriving at the hospital for treatment."
Ongoing Conflict
As of 8:00 AM, when this report was filed, the clashes were still ongoing, with fears that the death toll and number of injured could rise. Some victims have been transferred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital and other facilities for further treatment.
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