At least four people have been shot after a clash erupted between opposing groups at a polling centre in Mognama union of Cox’s Bazar’s Pekua.

The incident was reported around 9am Sunday (Mar 24) when the clash between the groups turned violent and they opened fire at each other leaving four with bullet wounds. Following the scuffle, members of law enforcing agencies brought the situation under control.

The four men, who were shot are— Abul Hossain, Sadek, Badi and Ramiz.

According to the locals, Chairman Sharafat Ullah Wasim charged into a polling centre with his men and tried to cast false ballots for Awami League candidate Abul Kashem. At this point, supporters of  Jahangir Alam, who is a rebel candidate of the ruling party, tried to stop them, which turned into a brawl prompting each side to shoot at each other.

Presiding Officer Osman Gani said, “Situation at the centre is risky. I heard that heavy clash broke out and as a result the centre in empty with no voters in sight.”

He also said that concerned official has been informed about the situation.

Additional Superintendent of Police Md Iqbal Hossain said, “Clash broke out outside of the polling centre and people have been shot. Police immediately reached the scene and took control.”

“Voters are not casting their franchise amid festive mood,” he added.