At least 50 houses attacked and looted in Madaripur's Baherandi, including July fighter Tamim's home

At least fifty houses, including the home of July fighter Tamim Matubbar, were attacked, vandalised, looted and set on fire in Baherandi village in Madaripur Sadar Upazila, according to allegations from those affected.

The affected residents alleged that men loyal to Awami League leaders Bachchu Moral and Lovelu Moral carried out the attack. Local sources said the incident took place on Wednesday morning over a dispute concerning the formation of a mosque committee.

Tamim Matubbar alleged that the officer-in-charge of Madaripur Sadar Police Station sided with the Awami League and, staying with them, drove his group from their homes. Bachchu Moral's men then entered their houses, attacked them, looted property and set fires, he claimed.

Tamim Matubbar accused the Sadar police chief of sheltering Awami League men and demanded a proper investigation and action against those involved.

Local sources said Bachchu Moral and Lovelu Moral of Baherandi village had a long-running dispute with men loyal to Emdad Matubbar of the same area. The dispute resurfaced recently over the formation of the Baherandi Jame Mosque committee.

The affected residents claimed at least 50 houses, including Tamim Matubbar's home, were vandalised and looted in the attack. Several houses were also set on fire.

The affected families said they are suffering financial losses as well as insecurity. Tension and fear prevail in Baherandi village after the incident.

The affected residents further alleged that during the incident the Sadar police chief showed bias towards one side and chased Emdad Matubbar's men out of the area. The rival group then attacked, vandalised and looted their houses. The allegation could not be independently verified.

Madaripur Additional Superintendent of Police Jahangir Alam said police went to the scene after the incident to bring the situation under control. The situation is now normal, he said, and a process is under way to file a case on behalf of an affected family.

On the allegation against the police, Jahangir Alam said the matter will be investigated and legal action will be taken.

Accused Bachchu Moral could not be found in the area. His mobile phone was switched off when contact was attempted, so his statement could not be obtained.

The affected residents demanded a proper investigation, identification and legal action against those involved in the attack, and assurance of security for life and property.