A man was killed and at least 15 others were reportedly injured in a clash between two rival groups in Natai village of Brahmanbaria Sadar upazila on Wednesday.
The deceased was identified as Miajul Hossain, 50, son of Tota Miah of Natai village. He served as the president of the CNG Owners' Association of Brahmanbaria Sadar upazila.
According to locals and the victim’s family, there had been a longstanding rivalry between the ‘Chander Bari group’ of Natai south union and the ‘Selim Bari group’ over establishing dominance in the area.
Brahmanbaria Sadar Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md Mozzafar Hossain said the clash was triggered by group rivalry.
“Tensions have escalated following the death of one person. Members of RAB have been deployed to maintain law and order in the area,” he added.
Tensions escalated from Monday night, with several clashes reported between the two groups. On Wednesday, fighting broke out at around 2pm, during which both sides used locally made weapons, including spears and iron rods.
Around 10 to 12 crude bombs were also detonated and at least 15 people were injured, said locals.
Around 5:30pm, Miajul, who belonged to the Chander Bari group, was reportedly attacked by members of the rival group. Locals rescued him and took him to Brahmanbaria General Hospital around 6pm.
After receiving initial treatment at the emergency unit, he was admitted to the surgery ward, where he died shortly after around 6:15pm.
Dr Tajul Islam, an on-duty physician at the emergency department of Brahmanbaria General Hospital, said Miajul was found to have high blood pressure upon arrival at the hospital. He died while undergoing treatment.
“He was declared dead after several tests. The exact cause of death can be confirmed after an autopsy,” he added.