Rangamati, Dec 15 (V7N) - On Sunday, December 14, 2025, members of the UPDF launched a coordinated attack on the Forest Department office in Machalong South, Sajek, Baghai Chhari Upazila, Rangamati. The attack occurred as forest officials attempted to remove illegal structures from government land. A forest ranger, Ashraful Alam, sustained serious injuries during the assault. Important official documents were destroyed, and a motorcycle was vandalized during the attack.

The incident escalated when UPDF leader Secretary Chakma led a group of armed men and women from the UPDF and Hill Women’s Federation in an assault on Forest Department staff using sticks. The group later ransacked the Forest Department office in Machalong market and attempted to abduct forest ranger Lutfor Rahman. The military quickly intervened, rescuing the ranger and restoring order.

Following the attack, the UPDF and affiliated women’s groups felled trees on the Sajek road, blocking traffic. Hundreds of tourists visiting Sajek and guests attending a wedding of the Sajek Union Parishad chairman’s daughter were stranded. The military cleared the blockade without falling into traps set by the assailants, restoring normal traffic flow.

Forest Department officials reported that the UPDF had illegally occupied government land under the pretext of a school. Despite repeated warnings and official notices, construction resumed on Sunday, violating a court-issued injunction. Historical records indicate that a BRAC school was initially established at the site in 2012 but closed in 2019 due to lack of funding. The new construction initiative this year prompted the Forest Department to seek legal action.

Authorities confirmed that over a hundred people are now being listed as accused, and legal proceedings are underway. Sajek Union Parishad Chairman Atulal Chakma condemned the attack, stating that outsiders carried out the incident and asserting that the administration will take legal action.

The Forest Department reiterated that the site is government land, and unauthorized occupation for construction is strictly prohibited. They warned that any further illegal activities will be met with strict enforcement measures.

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