A group of 2,933 tourists, including Mohammad Naim who traveled from Narayanganj, experienced a harrowing ordeal during their trip to the popular hill destination of Sajek. Stranded due to a blockade called by local organisations including the Sajek Gono Odhikar Rokkha Committee and the Sajek Karbari Association, the visitors had to be escorted back toward Khagrachhari under the tight security of law enforcement forces. However, as the convoy reached Ujo Bazar in Baghaichhari, they faced intense resistance from the blockade enforcers. Suddenly, gunfire broke out at the scene, triggering widespread panic and terror among the trapped travellers. Describing the terrifying moments, Naim remarked that it felt as though they had narrowly escaped the jaws of death.
In response to the escalating violence and mounting security risks, the Rangamati district administration acted swiftly to address the crisis. Recognizing the immediate threat to human lives, the local administration declared a temporary suspension of all tourism activities in Sajek. Authorities announced that no new tourists would be permitted to enter the valley until further notice, while special measures were adopted to safely evacuate those who were stranded or already on their way back. Law enforcement agencies have ramped up their presence in the area to restore order and investigate the origins of the armed skirmish.
Sajek Valley is widely celebrated as one of Bangladesh’s premier tourism hubs, drawing countless visitors daily to its breathtaking landscapes. However, recurring local disputes, blockades, and political tensions have repeatedly paralyzed the region, posing a severe threat to its burgeoning tourism economy. Business owners and industry stakeholders have expressed deep concern, warning that ongoing instability will devastate local livelihoods, transport services, and hospitality businesses that depend heavily on a steady influx of travelers.
Local civil society leaders and tourism advocates have called for immediate dialogue between the administration, community leaders, and local factions to find peaceful resolutions to underlying grievances. Meanwhile, security forces are conducting thorough patrols and intelligence operations around Baghaichhari and Sajek to track down those responsible for the gunfire and recover illegal arms. Officials have reiterated that public safety remains their utmost priority and urged all prospective travelers to strictly adhere to official travel advisories until the region is declared completely safe for tourism.
