30 injured as hawkers clash with police in Narayanganj; 10 vehicles torched

At least 30 people, including 10 policemen, were injured after police clashed with hawkers in Narayanganj city this evening.

Besides, at least 10 vehicles were also torched during the clash which was sparked during the hawkers' protest in different areas demanding sitting arrangement on footpaths, police and witnesses said.

Earlier, police intercepted a procession of the hawkers at Chashara Intersection around 5:00pm and detained one of their leaders, said multiple witnesses and hawkers.

The hawkers then blocked a road in front of Modern Diagnostic Centre, started a fire in front of Sugandha Restaurant and hurled brickbats at the lawmen, triggering the clash.

They also vandalised 10 vehicles, including three passenger buses. At that time, five passengers were injured, witnesses said.

Later, police dispersed the hawkers and broke the protests around 7:00pm.

Rahim Munsi, a leader of the hawkers, claimed that at least 15 of their fellows were injured as police charged baton on them.

Meanwhile, Mehedi Imran Siddiqui, additional superintendent of police in Narayanganj, said at least 10 policemen were injured during the clash.

Necessary steps will be taken in connection with the incident, he added.   

The injured were admitted to different hospitals in the city, according to police, hawkers and witnesses.