Police information & CMCH statement different from another.

At least 30 people were injured in a clash among workers of three readymade garment factories in Chattogram Export Processing Zone (CEPZ) today morning (11 January).

Law enforcement officials reported that the army was deployed to control the conflict that started at around 9am and continued for an hours.

Officer-in-Charge (OC) of EPZ police station Mohammad Akhtaruzzaman said, “The unrest started with a disagreement between workers of different factories over opening a factory’s main gate. The argument escalated into hurling brickbats and physical confrontations. Many were injured and required hospitalisation.”

“The situation is now under control, with the army present at the site to ensure peace. Further details will be shared following an investigation,” said OC.

According to police and labour sources, workers at several garment factories had been staging protests for days, demanding a 9% yearly salary increase. Some factory authorities agreed to the demands, prompting workers from other factories to initiate similar protests.

A worker name Naeem, who brought many of the injured to Chattogram Medical College Hospital (CMCH), said, “The protest started at 9am, and workers from Modist, JMS, & Merimo factories suddenly got involved in a clash.”

Naeem also said, “In total, 30 workers were hurt before police and army personnel restored order.
Many were wielding sticks. Bricks and stones were thrown between groups. We rescued 19 injured people and transported them to the hospital”.

“injured began arriving at the hospital from 12pm. They have been provided with emergency treatment.” said staff of CMCH emergency department Monir Hossain.