Mithamoin clash leaves 45 hurt

At least 45 people were injured in a clash between supporters of a current and a former union parishad member over allegations of illegal fishing and the theft of ring nets in Mithamoin haor of Kishoreganj on Friday morning.

The incident took place in Imamnagar village of Bairati union in Mithamoin upazila.

Locals said a dispute had been ongoing between the relatives and supporters of current UP member Hannan Mia and former UP member Abdul Latif, both from Imamnagar, over fishing in the haor and alleged theft of ring nets.

Locals took the initiative to resolve the dispute through mediation on Friday morning. Bairati Union Parishad Chairman Tajul Islam and other local dignitaries went to the village to attend the arbitration.

However, before the mediation could begin, supporters of the two sides locked into a clash in a field in front of the village. The opposing groups allegedly used axes, spears and clubs during the confrontation, leaving at least 45 people injured.

The injured were taken to Mithamoin Upazila Health Complex and private clinics for treatment.
Bairati UP Chairman Tajul Islam said he had gone to Imamnagar to mediate between the two sides.

However, the parties became involved in a clash despite the presence of the mediators.

The situation was later brought under control through the joint efforts of locals, he said.
Assistant Superintendent of Police (Austagram Circle) Md Didarul Islam said police were sent to the scene after receiving information about the clash. “The situation is currently normal,” he told The New Nation.

He said police would take necessary legal action after investigation if a complaint was filed over the incident.