20 Injured in Clash Over Facebook Post in Shantiganj

At least 20 people were injured in a clash between two groups over a Facebook post in Patharia Bazar on Sunday night.

During the violence, a mini-market was vandalized, two shops looted, and three motorcycles damaged. The army and police intervened to control the situation. Seven people were arrested at the scene by the army and later handed over to police.

Eyewitnesses said the conflict arose between supporters of local BNP members Faruk Ahmed and Ansar Uddin. Tension began over a Facebook post, which village elders tried to mediate. However, Monir Mia’s supporters attacked Angur Mia’s market, prompting a counterattack.

Businesses reported losses, including Tk 2.5 lakh stolen from Rehan Store, vandalism of Barakat Restaurant, and damage to motorcycles. At least 10 people were seriously injured, with several admitted to hospitals in Sunamganj, Sylhet, and Dirai.

Monir Mia and Angur Mia both blamed each other for instigating the clash. Police said no formal case had been filed as of Monday afternoon.