A tense confrontation unfolded in Thanchi upazila of Bandarban on Thursday night, marking a significant escalation in violence as police clashed with assailants believed to be members of the separatist group Kuki Chin National Front (KNF).
The exchange of gunfire began around 8:45pm near Thanchi Bazar, with reports indicating that the armed group attempted an attack on Thanchi Police Station, prompting police to retaliate with at least 500 rounds.
Jasimuddin, the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Thanchi Police Station, confirmed the ongoing conflict, expressing difficulty in identifying the attackers due to the darkness. The police station, situated within close proximity to a BGB camp and an army checkpoint at Thanchi Bazar's edge, became a focal point of the violent encounter.
Khamllai Mro, President of the Thanchi Bazar Committee and former Upazila Chairman, reported that gunfire was exchanged between the joint forces and KNF militants. Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Mamun also noted a heavy exchange of fire involving KNF members, police, and BGB forces, promising further details to be provided later. As of the time of reporting, no casualties have been confirmed.
This incident follows a series of aggressive actions by the KNF, including a gunpoint robbery at Sonali Bank in Ruma upazila on Tuesday night, where 1.5 crore taka and 10 weapons were stolen. Additionally, Sonali Bank Manager Nezhad Uddin was abducted during prayers in a mosque, though later statements clarified that no money was taken from the bank vault.
Further violence occurred on Wednesday afternoon when KNF militants attacked and robbed two bank branches in Thanchi upazila. In a positive turn of events on Thursday evening, officials from RAB-7 announced the rescue of the abducted Sonali Bank manager, highlighting the ongoing efforts to restore peace and security in the region.
