At least 30 people were injured in a clash between two groups in Mithamoin upazila of Kishoreganj on Friday, reportedly triggered by a dispute over fishing in a haor and the alleged theft of a ring net.
The clash broke out around 10am in Imam Nagar village of Ward 8 under Bairati Union, according to local residents.
The dispute had reportedly been ongoing for several days between relatives and supporters of incumbent Union Parishad member Hannan Mia and former UP member Abdul Latif.
Local sources said the disagreement centred on fishing in the haor and an allegation that a ring net had been stolen.
Bairati Union Parishad Chairman Tajul Islam, along with other local community leaders, went to the village on Friday morning to mediate between the two sides.
However, before the arbitration could begin, supporters of the two groups reportedly clashed in a field in front of the village. They allegedly used locally made weapons, including machetes, spears and teta-a traditional trident-like fishing weapon.
At least 30 people from both sides were injured, locals said. The injured were taken to different hospitals for treatment.
Tajul Islam said he had gone to Imam Nagar with local elders to resolve the dispute.
“We had arranged the mediation and the community leaders were waiting to begin the discussion when the two sides suddenly became involved in a clash,” he said.
He said the situation was later brought under control through the joint efforts of local residents and community leaders.
“The situation is now under control,” he added.
Md Didarul Islam, assistant superintendent of police of the Ashtagram Circle, said police were sent to the area after receiving information about the clash.
“The situation is currently normal. If a complaint is filed, the matter will be investigated and necessary legal action will be taken,” he said.
