At least 15 people were injured in a clash between locals and members of the banned militant outfit Hizb-ut-Tawhid in Pirgachha upazila of Rangpur on Monday.
According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Asifa Afroz, around 40 members of Hizb-ut-Tawhid were holding a secret meeting at a house in Nagdah Sidam area around 8:00 am.
As the information of the gathering spread, local residents attempted to stop them leading to rising tensions.
The situation escalated into violence as both sides, armed with sharp weapons and sticks, attacked each other, leaving 15 people injured.
During the clash, locals vandalised two houses and set fire to four others belonging to Hizb-ut-Tawhid activists.
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Four of the injured were taken to Rangpur Medical College Hospital for treatment.
Upon receiving information, police, army personnel and detectives rushed to the scene and brought the situation under control. Seven people were arrested from the spot.
Two women, including a pregnant woman, were taken into police custody for questioning.
Pirgachha Upazila Nirbahi Officer Nazmul Haque Sumon confirmed that the militant group had planned a meeting, which led to growing tensions in the area.
To prevent further unrest, additional police forces have been deployed there.