At least 3 individuals were killed and over a hundred others injured following violent clashes between two factions of the Tabligh Jamaat at the Bishwa Ijtema grounds in Tongi, Gazipur. The violence prompted the deployment of four platoons of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) to restore order in the area.
According to BGB spokesperson Mohammad Shariful Islam, the situation escalated early in the morning, leading to the violent clashes.
Local sources report that around 3am on Wednesday (18 December), one faction, identified as the followers of Maulana Saad, began entering the Ijtema grounds through various routes, including the Kamarpura Bridge, on the west bank of the Turag River.
In response, the opposing faction, led by Zubair followers, began hurling bricks and stones.
The ensuing exchange of attacks escalated quickly, resulting in a full-scale confrontation once the Sadpantis entered the grounds.
In the aftermath, two individuals were confirmed dead at the scene, and a third later succumbed to injuries while receiving treatment at Dhaka Medical College and Hospital.
Among the deceased were 70-year-old Bachchu Mia from the village of Egarshindur in the Pakundia Upazila of Kishoreganj, 60-year-old Belal from the Beraid area in South Khan, Dhaka, and 65-year-old Taijul Islam from Bogura.
Officer-in-Charge of Tongi West Police Station, Iskandar Habib confirmed that two fatalities had been officially recorded, with efforts underway to maintain law and order.
The administration has assured the public that steps are being taken to bring the situation under control.
Authorities have not disclosed the total number of injuries, but local reports suggest that the number of wounded could exceed a hundred, with many requiring hospitalisation for various injuries.
The deployment of BGB forces is expected to assist in managing the security situation and preventing further violence as preparations for the World Ijtema continue.
