Blast During Workers’ Party Clash in Madaripur

A violent confrontation erupted in Madaripur’s municipal area on Saturday, 17 January, as rival factions of the Workers’ Party clashed following the killing of party leader Shakil Munsi. The bloody skirmish, which lasted from early morning until midday in the No. 2 Ward of New Madaripur, saw the detonation of numerous homemade bombs and grenades, leaving at least ten people injured and causing damage to several residential properties.

Local sources report that the conflict stemmed from a long-standing feud between supporters of Aktar Hawlader, accused in the killing of Shakil Munsi, and those of the complainant, Hasan Munsi. The tension escalated in the early hours of Saturday when Aktar Hawlader’s supporters attacked the home of Workers’ Party leader Hannan Dhal, triggering a wider outbreak of violence across the neighbourhood.

By around 10:00 am, the opposing groups confronted one another directly, engaging in a chaotic exchange involving brick-throwing, the use of improvised weapons, and repeated explosions of cocktails and bombs. Residents described scenes of panic and terror as the area was transformed into a battlefield.

Law enforcement, supported by the military and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) units, launched a joint operation that eventually brought the situation under control after several hours. Additional police personnel were deployed to maintain order. Additional Superintendent of Police Jahangir Alam stated, “Through coordinated efforts by police, army, and RAB, the situation has been stabilised. Several improvised weapons were recovered during the operation. The clash occurred between supporters of the complainant and the accused. While tensions remain high, law enforcement continues to maintain a vigilant presence.”

Madaripur Sadar police officer-in-charge Abul Kalam Azad confirmed that no formal complaints or lawsuits have been filed by either side as of now. Authorities have assured that all necessary measures are being taken to prevent further incidents and to protect local residents from potential harm.

The table below summarises the key details of the incident:

Authorities continue to monitor the area closely, urging residents to remain cautious while investigations into the violence are ongoing.