Police have filed a case in connection with the clash between Awami League and BNP activists in Khagrachari on Thursday.
Sub-inspector Minhajul Abedin filed the case at Sadar police station on Wednesday, naming 157 BNP leaders and activists, along with 600-700 unidentified individuals.
So far, fifteen people have been arrested in connection to the case.
According to the case statement, the clash took place around 10:30am on Tuesday at Shapla Chattar and its surrounding areas, during an Awami League peace and development procession and the BNP's march.
The clash lasted for over three hours, resulting in injuries to at least 50 people, including the police.
During the clash, traffic came to a halt and shops were closed. BNP activists reportedly entered through the municipal gate and vandalized various structures. The police were attacked with bricks when they attempted to intervene, leading to the firing of tear shells to regain control. Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) was later deployed, the statement added.
Sadar police station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Arifur Rahman confirmed the incident, adding: "Efforts to arrest the other accused in the case is underway."
Former Member of Parliament and district BNP president Wadud Bhuiyan held a press conference in the Kalabagan area of the city, addressing the situation.
He alleged: "Awami League leaders and activists attacked and vandalized the houses of BNP leaders and activists in various places, including the District Headquarters, Matiranga, Ramgarh, and Panchari upazila BNP office, on Tuesday evening."
He further stated that if such incidents continue, programs like strike-blockades will be announced in the district.
Wadud criticized the police for filing a case against BNP members despite alleging that they were the ones attacked.
In response, Nirmalendu Chowdhury, mayor of the municipality and General Secretary of the district Awami League, stated that legal action will be taken against those involved in attacking and vandalizing the municipal office.
He mentioned that after reviewing the CCTV footage, he will file a case against the individuals responsible for the incident, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public order.
