A long-standing dispute erupted into violent clashes in Osmaninagar upazila of Sylhet on Saturday evening, leaving one man dead and at least 12 others injured from both sides.
The deceased was identified as Shajahan Miah Sourav (25), son of Abdul Aziz of North Tilapara village under Burunga Bazar Union.
The clash took place around 5pm in North Tilapara village. One of the injured remains in critical condition and is undergoing treatment at Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital.
Local residents said families of Barik Uddin and Abdul Aziz had been at odds for years. The dispute reportedly intensified two years ago over land belonging to the North Tilapara Jame Mosque.
Tensions flared again around two months ago following an argument over the movement of a jeep vehicle in the area. Both sides later filed separate cases in court over these incidents.
According to eyewitnesses and police, Sourav was returning home from Sylhet city when he was allegedly ambushed by supporters of Barik Uddin. The situation quickly escalated as members of both groups engaged in a violent confrontation using locally made weapons.
During the clash, Sourav sustained a severe injury to his windpipe from a sharp weapon. He was rushed to Sylhet Osmani Medical College Hospital, where he later died in the evening while undergoing treatment.
Following the incident, tension has been running high in the area.
Those injured include Al Amin, Shahan, Sakil, Jigir, Supan and Abdul Aziz. All have been admitted to Osmani Medical College Hospital. Among them, Shakil Ahmed is reported to be in critical condition.
Sourav’s uncle, Mizanur Rahman, alleged that his nephew was killed in a pre-planned attack stemming from previous hostilities.
Osmaninagar Police Station Officer-in-Charge Murshedul Alam Bhuiyan confirmed the incident, saying police patrols have been intensified in the area to prevent further violence. Legal action is underway, and the victim’s family is preparing to file a case.