A violent armed clash erupted between two notorious local criminal syndicates, known as the Kakan gang and the Kalu gang, over the territorial control of waterways along the Padma River. The intense gunbattle has triggered widespread panic and terror among ordinary fishermen and residents living along the riverbanks, disrupting daily life and local livelihoods in the region.
According to local sources, both factions have been locked in a bitter turf war for a long time, vying for absolute control over specific river routes, char areas, and lucrative fishing zones. The rivalry primarily stems from illegal extortion, forced toll collection from cargo boats and fishing trawlers, and dominance over illegal activities along the river route. Tensions had been steadily escalating between the rival groups over the past few days, ultimately culminating in an open armed confrontation.
Eyewitnesses reported that the outlaws took positions along the waterway armed with heavy weaponry, firing numerous rounds indiscriminately. The deafening sound of gunfire reverberated across the riverside settlements, forcing panicked residents to stay indoors. Fishermen who venture into the Padma River daily to earn their livelihood found themselves in grave danger, with many hastily abandoning their fishing nets and returning ashore for safety.
Local residents and fishermen have expressed deep concern and frustration over the brazen activities of these armed criminal groups, emphasizing that their livelihoods are severely threatened. They noted that the lack of adequate and visible law enforcement patrols along certain stretches of the river has emboldened these gangs to operate with impunity, leaving common citizens in a state of constant fear and insecurity.
In response to the escalating crisis, local communities have urgently called upon law enforcement agencies to step up security measures and conduct rigorous patrols across the river routes to restore peace. Meanwhile, local administrative authorities stated that intelligence surveillance has been intensified and preparations are underway to launch a comprehensive crackdown against the members of both gangs, assuring that those involved in the violence will soon be brought to justice.
