Tourists Advised to Avoid Sajek Valley Until September 30 Amid Security Concerns

Tourists have been advised to refrain from visiting Sajek Valley, a popular tourist destination in Rangamati, until September 30 due to ongoing security concerns. The decision was confirmed by Shirrin Akter, the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Baghaichhari, in a statement to *The Daily Star*.

Earlier, a notice was issued advising tourists not to visit Sajek until Thursday. However, this directive has now been extended through Monday, September 30. Indra Chakma, the proprietor of Sajek Hill View Cottage, stated that they were informed of the extension on Friday night. He also confirmed that there are currently no tourists in Sajek.

This advisory follows the abduction of three tourists by miscreants on Tuesday while they were returning from Sajek. The incident took place in Boalkhali Bazar, Dighinala, in Khagrachhari district. However, the abductees were released shortly after.

The district administration has decided to issue the advisory to prevent any further untoward incidents amid the current situation in the hill districts. The administration is closely monitoring the developments in Dighinala, Khagrachhari, and Rangamati. They plan to promote tourism again once the situation normalizes.

Tensions have been high in the region following the lynching of a Bengali youth, Md. Mamun (30), in Khagrachhari town last week, in connection with a motorcycle theft. The incident led to widespread unrest, with many indigenous people’s homes and businesses being set ablaze. The violence spread to Rangamati as well, resulting in four deaths across the two districts.

Earlier, over 1,500 tourists were stranded in Sajek for 72 hours due to blockades, following these violent incidents.