A violent clash broke out between two groups of locals on Dhaka-Chattogram highway in Narayanganj yesterday, which resulted in traffic deadlock on the highway for four hours, vehicles and shops being vandalised and at least 20 people, including policemen, injured.

The clash ensued between the supporters of Khalilur Rahman, a union parishad (UP) member, and supporters of one Amir Hossain, after Khalil was hacked by a group of miscreants near Madanpur bus stand around 12:30pm, said Officer-in-Charge of Bandar Police Station Azharul Islam.

The two groups blockaded the highway, took position on either side of it and threw brickbats at each other.

Sohel Mia, a passenger of a Dhaka-bound bus said their bus was hit by brick chips from both sides of the road when it reached Madanpur bus stand. Many passengers had to get down from the bus and move to safety.

Mohsin Mia, driver of a lorry, said he was going to Chattogram carrying readymade garments, when it came under attack. “I've been stuck in traffic jam for over four hours,” he said.

Police said supporters of Amir Hossain, a local influential, attacked Khalil with sharp weapons when he was at his shop, leaving him and Shamim, owner of a nearby shop, injured. Khalil's supporters retaliated and blocked the highway resulting in a 10-15km tailback on both sides of the highway, OC Azharul said.

A large contingent of police, along with an armoured truck, as well as members of Rapid Action Battalion were deployed in the area. They brought the situation under control after 5:00pm.

Agitators vandalised 12 vehicles and a few shops. Eight policemen including an assistant sub-inspector were injured, he said. Locals said another 10 to 12 people were hurt in the incident.

Khalil and Shamim were sent to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, while the other injured were treated at local hospitals.

Local UP Chairman MA Salam told journalists that Khalil was a member of his parishad, and demanded that his attackers are arrested within 24 hours.

Amir Hossain could not be reached for comments.

Photo: Traffic movement on the Dhaka-Chattogram highway remains suspended following a clash between two rival groups in Narayanganj over establishing supremacy in the area. Photo: Sanad Shaha