Army raid in Khagrachari leaves MLP commander dead

An alleged regional commander of the Mog Liberation Party(MLP) was killed during an army operation in Khagrachari’s Shantinagar area on Friday morning, while another suspect was arrested with arms and ammunition.

The deceased was identified as Kongchaiñyo Marma, 31, son of Aungsazai Marma of Mahalchhari.

Security officials said he was the prime suspect in the abduction of two technicians from a Robi mobile tower in Chadurkhil, Manikchhari, in April this year.

According to army sources, troops from the Sindukchari Zone first arrested suspected insurgent Ismail Hossain in a predawn raid, recovering firearms and ammunition. Based on his information, a second raid was conducted at a rented house owned by businessman Sujit Dey in Shantinagar later in the morning.

Sensing the presence of security forces, Kongchaiñyo allegedly jumped from the second floor of the building, sustaining critical injuries. He was taken to Khagrachhari Sadar Hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

Local residents reported hearing several gunshots during the operation.

A search of the premises led to the recovery of one pistol, five LGs, 21 cartridges and 18 pistol bullets.

Dr Dipa Tripura of Khagrachari Sadar Hospital said the man had died before arrival, with injuries consistent with a fall from height and no bullet wounds.

OC Abdul Baten Mridha of Khagrachari Sadar Police Station said a police inquest was conducted and an investigation is underway. The army’s Guimara Region Sindukchhari Zone said details will be shared in a press briefing.