Rangamati Superintendent of Police Muhammad Abdur Rakib confirmed the exchange of gunfire. He said firing between law enforcement personnel and an armed group was still continuing at around 12.30 pm. Further details would be provided after the authorities had gathered more information, he added.
The trouble began earlier in the morning, when activists from the Sajek Public Rights Protection Committee and the Sajek Karbari Association launched an indefinite road blockade. At around 8.30 am, tourist vehicles travelling from Sajek towards Khagrachhari reached the Uj bazaar area and found their route obstructed.
At approximately 11 am, members of the law enforcement agencies attempted to remove the barriers and clear the road so that the tourist convoy could proceed towards Khagrachhari. Tensions escalated during the operation, leading to clashes with the protesters. Stones and bricks were reportedly thrown before gunfire broke out.
The confrontation left tourists caught up in the disruption, with their journey interrupted by the deteriorating security situation. Law enforcement personnel subsequently took steps to move them out of the area under special security arrangements. Details of any casualties were not immediately available.
Protesters demand improved security
The Sajek Public Rights Protection Committee and the Sajek Karbari Association announced the indefinite blockade from Thursday, demanding stronger security for local residents and an end to armed activities in the area.
The two organisations alleged that the presence and activities of armed individuals, along with threats in different parts of Sajek, had left residents feeling unsafe. Their protest, they said, was intended to draw attention to these concerns and press for measures to protect the local population.
The blockade has also highlighted the difficulties that security disruptions can create for people travelling through the region. Sajek is a popular tourist destination in the hill district of Rangamati, attracting visitors with its mountain scenery, cloud-covered hills and natural landscape. Road access is essential for tourists entering and leaving the area, making any prolonged obstruction a significant concern for both visitors and local communities.
The latest confrontation has raised fresh questions about the safety of residents and the uninterrupted movement of visitors. However, the full circumstances surrounding the clash and the identity of the armed group involved had not been established in the information available at the time.
Sajek Valley tourism centre temporarily closed
Separately, the Rangamati district administration announced the temporary closure of the Sajek Valley tourist destination from 7 pm on Wednesday, citing concerns over a possible deterioration in the security situation. The closure will remain in effect until further notice.
Tourists staying in Sajek were instructed to leave the area by 4 pm on Thursday and return safely to their respective destinations. The directive came as the authorities sought to reduce the risk to visitors amid growing security concerns.
The closure, combined with the road blockade and subsequent gunfire, has disrupted travel plans and placed additional pressure on the authorities to ensure the safe departure of tourists.
Restoring normal conditions in Sajek will depend on addressing the immediate security concerns and ensuring that roads can be used safely. The demands raised by local organisations, meanwhile, underline the importance of protecting residents from threats and maintaining stability in the area.
Until the administration issues further instructions, prospective visitors should take account of the temporary closure and follow official guidance on travel to Sajek.
