Five Killed in Gunfight Over Land in Hatiya Island

At least five people were killed and ten others injured in a violent clash and gunfight between two rival groups over land possession in Noakhali’s Hatiya upazila on Tuesday morning, December 23. Police have expressed concern that the death toll may rise further.

The incident took place around 10 a.m. in Jaglar Char, a disputed area located between wards 7 and 8 of Sukchar Union. Law enforcement confirmed that one of the deceased was identified as Alauddin, 40, son of Mohiuddin from Char Aman Ullah village in Sukchar Union. His body was taken to Noakhali General Hospital, while four other bodies were recovered from the scene.

Local sources said the government has not yet allocated land in Jaglar Char. However, after August 5, a group led by Shamsu Uddin, locally known as Kopa Shamsu Bahini, allegedly began selling plots of land in the char. In response, Alauddin’s group also started selling land at higher prices, intensifying the rivalry. Both groups attempted to establish dominance by selling land separately, which led to repeated confrontations.

Allegations have surfaced that Alauddin maintained close ties with political figures, including former BNP leader Belayet Hossain Selim, Awami League leader Nizam Member, and BNP leader Nabi. These leaders were accused of backing Alauddin’s group in an effort to oust Kopa Shamsu Bahini and seize control of the disputed land.

On Tuesday morning, the two groups confronted each other over land occupation. The standoff escalated into an armed gunfight. Alauddin and four others were shot and critically injured. Alauddin was later declared dead at Noakhali General Hospital, while four bodies remained at the scene.

Hatiya Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md. Saiful Alam confirmed the casualties, stating: “One body has been taken to Noakhali General Hospital, and four others were recovered from the spot.”

Authorities have tightened security in the area to prevent further violence, while investigations continue into the involvement of local political leaders and the illegal sale of char land.