Intense gunfire erupted between two rival armed groups in the deep forest areas of Baharchhara union in Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar, causing widespread panic among the local residents.
The gunfight took place in the East Jummapara hilly area of Baharchhara union from 6:30pm to 8:30pm on Thursdaya. According to local sources, the area had previously witnessed the sound of 20 to 30 rounds of gunfire on Wednesday night as well.
Local sources indicated that clashes frequently occur between two groups of kidnappers and human trafficking syndicates over establishing dominance. Residents expressed frustration that despite recurring incidents, no permanent solution has been implemented.
Baharchhara Union Parishad member Md Elias confirmed the incident, stating that the gunfire between the two terrorist groups occurred on both Wednesday and Thursday evenings, leaving the local community in deep fear.
Durjoy Biswas, the officer-in-charge (OC) of Baharchhara Police Outpost, stated that law enforcers rushed to the scene upon receiving reports of the shootout. He added that the situation is currently under control and the matter is being investigated.
In a related development, a group of armed terrorists kidnapped six farmers from the area on Tuesday morning. Three days have passed since the abduction, but their whereabouts remain unknown.
Locals expressed concerns that the continued activities of armed terrorists in the hills could lead to significant violence and instability surrounding the upcoming 13th parliamentary election.
