UPDF member shot dead in Khagrachhari

PNN News Desk, Khagrachhari
In the hill district of Khagrachhari, a member of the United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF–Prasit Khisa faction) was shot dead. The incident occurred on Wednesday (April 8) at around 9:30 AM near a shop in Akbari area of Khagrachhari Union, Sadar Upazila.

The deceased was Newton Chakma, also known as Nirmal (47). He hailed from Gobghona village of Mogban Union in Rangamati district and resided with his family in Mahalchhari, Khagrachhari.

UPDF (Prasit) claimed that Newton Chakma had gone to Akbari area in the morning with another member for organizational work. While there, a group of 8–10 armed individuals on motorcycles launched a sudden attack. Chakma’s companion managed to escape, but Newton was shot and killed at the scene.

Spokesperson Angya Marma alleged that a rival faction of UPDF (Democratic) led by Ajit Chakma was behind the attack. However, UPDF (Democratic) denied any involvement. Central organizer Amar Jyoti Chakma suggested the incident may have resulted from internal disputes or the actions of another group.

Khagrachhari Sadar Police Station’s acting officer-in-charge (OC) Md. Kai Kislu stated that the police reached the scene upon receiving the news. The body has been recovered, and the actual cause of the incident will be determined after investigation.

It is worth noting that on March 27, a UPDF (Democratic) leader was also killed in a similar attack in Panchhari Upazila, Khagrachhari. These recent incidents have renewed concerns over security in the hill regions.