The Independent, 27 August 2003
One killed, 15 hurt, scores of houses torched
OUR CORRESPONDENT, KHAGRACHHARI
Aug 26: One person was killed, and at least 15 others were injured in a clash between the tribals and Bangalees at Mohalchhari today following abduction of Rupam Mohajan (25), son of Bijoy Mohajan of Shinginala area in Khagrachhari district.
The dead was identified as Binod Bihari Khisha (67). He was shot dead.
More than 100 dwelling houses were set on fire at Babupara and Thalipara during the arson.
Armed terrorists abducted Rupam Mohajan at gun point last Sunday when he went to watch game at Shinginala School ground. The abductors demanded Tk five lakh as ransom.
Police said the incident of abduction triggered the violent clash between the tribals and Bangalee settlers at about 10 am today. Three Bangalees were hit by bullets during the clash while three tribals were injured being struck with machete. The injured were identified as Jasimuddin (25), Jamaluddin (26), Md Harun (25), Bisu Banik (27), Sarwar (18), Rumal Chakma (17), Sumon Marma (20), Kanti Chakma (27) and Satya Narayan Chakma (65). Injured Jasimudddin has been sent to Chittagong.
On receiving information about the incident chairman of Chittagong Hill Tracts Development Board Wadud Bhuiyan MP, deputy commissioner Md Humayun Kabir Khan, region commander Brigadier General Md Zahurul Alam and police super Motiur Rahman Sheikh went to the spot. They sat in a meeting with two feuding groups.
Rupam Mohajan’s family sources said the abductors had asked them to pay the ransom by August 27.
Vehicles went off roads in Mohalchhari-Khagrachhari area yesterday (Monday)
demanding of the authorities to rescue abducted Rupam and check illegal toll
collection.