Two auto-rickshaw drivers shot in Lohagara in separate locations

PNN News Desk | Chattogram

Panic has spread in the area after two battery-powered auto-rickshaw drivers were shot in separate incidents in Lohagara, Chattogram. The incidents took place on Monday evening in Kumiraghona and Ghona Mor areas of Boro Hatia Union in the upazila.

The injured are Kaiyum Sharif (19), son of Shah Alam of Boroghona area in Chunati Union, and Md. Akib (20), son of Hamid Hossain of Kumiraghona area in Boro Hatia Union. Both worked as battery-powered auto-rickshaw drivers for a living.

According to family and local sources, Akib had long been involved in transporting food supplies for an armed hill group. After he recently refused to continue this work, he had been facing threats. The family alleges that due to this, miscreants targeted him and shot him. He was hit in the arm and abdomen.

On the other hand, Kaiyum Sharif said he had taken passengers from Chunati market to Ghona Mor area. After dropping them off, unknown miscreants opened fire while he was returning. He was hit in the back. However, he could not provide information about the attackers.

Locals claim that criminal activities, extortion, and intimidation have long been occurring in the hill-adjacent areas. Due to insecurity, many people are afraid to speak openly. The recent shootings have further increased public concern.

Dr. Abdullah Al Fahim of Lohagara Upazila Health Complex emergency department said both injured youths were given primary treatment and sent to Chattogram Medical College Hospital in critical condition.

Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md. Abdullah of Lohagara Police Station said police have started investigating the two separate incidents. Efforts are underway to identify those involved, and legal action will be taken after investigation.