Chittagong, Jan 11 (V7N)— A violent clash erupted between workers of two garment factories, JMS and Merimco, in the Chittagong Export Processing Zone (CEPZ) on Saturday morning, leaving at least 70 people injured. The injured have been admitted to Chittagong Medical College Hospital, BEPZA Hospital, and various local healthcare facilities.

The altercation, which began around 11:30 am, continued for hours before being brought under control by law enforcement agencies. Witnesses reported that the conflict arose from disputes over salary and allowance demands from the workers of both factories.

Local sources stated that JMS workers had been protesting for several days, demanding pay increases. Following a two-day factory closure, operations resumed on Saturday. However, tensions escalated when workers from Merimco, pressing their own demands, allegedly threw stones and damaged windows at the JMS factory.

The situation quickly deteriorated into a chase and counter-chase between workers from both sides, with stones being hurled and factory machinery vandalized.

Police Superintendent Md. Sulaiman of the Industrial Police stated, "There was a dispute between workers of two factories. The situation is currently calm. We are at the scene to ensure peace."

Representatives from the army and navy also intervened. Major Arefin of the army and Commander Monirul Islam of the navy confirmed that the factories have been declared closed for three days to ease tensions. Additional forces from the army, navy, and police have been deployed to maintain order in the EPZ.

The situation in the CEPZ is reported to be under control, but authorities are closely monitoring the area to prevent further escalation. Workers from both factories have been asked to refrain from engaging in violence, and negotiations are expected to resume after the holiday period.

This incident highlights ongoing tensions in the garment industry over wages and working conditions, which remain a pressing issue for factory workers and management alike.

END/MSS/AJ