Rangamati:The indefinite road blockade in Sajek, located in Rangamati, continued for the second consecutive day on Friday, with joint forces actively patrolling to maintain control over the law-and-order situation.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the blockade has been imposed by the Sajek Ganadhikar Rakkha Committee and the Sajek Karbari Association. Their demands include the immediate removal of armed members of the Parbatya Chattagram Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu group) from the area and ensuring the security of local residents. No incidents were reported on Friday, contrasting with Thursday's events when the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF) allegedly opened fire during the evacuation of stranded tourists by the Army and police from Sajek Valley in Bagaichari upazila.
Protesters have vowed to continue the blockade indefinitely until their demands are met. Security measures have been heightened, with the Rangamati Superintendent of Police Muhd. Abdur Rakib stating that joint forces will persist in their operations against criminals and armed groups to prevent any further incidents.
In support of the ongoing movement in Sajek, the Chhatra-Janata Sangram Parishad announced a half-day blockade of roads and waterways in the Rangamati and Khagrachhari districts, scheduled from 5 a.m. to noon on Saturday. This decision was confirmed by their President, Ushatan Chakma, who expressed solidarity with the residents of Sajek. Certain emergency services, such as ambulances and fire service vehicles, have been exempted from this blockade to reduce public suffering.
On Thursday, approximately 3,000 tourists were evacuated from Sajek Valley with assistance from the Army and police amid the blockade, during which armed UPDF members reportedly fired upon tourists and law enforcement personnel.