Clash over fishing in water body leaves 40 injured

At least 40 people were injured in a clash between two groups of villagers over catching fish in a water body at Karilgaon village in Chhatak upazila of Sunamganj district Wednesday evening.

Two of the injured--Sahejul Islam and Sadikur Rahman--were admitted to Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital while the rest to Sunamganj Sadar Hospital and Chhatak Upazila Heath Complex.

Police and locals said there was a longstanding dispute between Kancha Miah and his neighbour Zillur Rahman of the village over taking possession of the water body.

The trouble began at around 6:30pm when the supporters of Zillur Rahman went to the water body. Hearing the news, Kancha Miah along with his men rushed to the spot and tried to prevent Zillur and his men from catching fish.

The two rival groups, equipped with sharp weapons, swooped on each other, leaving at least 40 people from both sides injured.

Being informed, police went to the spot and dispersed the clashing groups. Ashok Suja Mamun, officer-in-charge of Chhatak Police Station, said the clash continued for one and a half hours.

No one was arrested in connection with the clash as of filing of this report at 5:00pm yesterday.

Contacted, the OC said they will take necessary actions against the persons involved in the illegal fishing in the water body after proper investigation.