Rourkela, Jan 17: At least two persons were detained in connection with a group clash in Sundargarh town that left at least 12 people, including police personnel, injured, a senior officer said on Friday.

Security has been tightened across the Sundargarh district headquarters, while educational institutions, markets and public transport services remained shut on Friday morning as a precautionary measure, officials said.

The district administration has imposed prohibitory orders and suspended internet services in the town till 6 pm on Friday to prevent the spread of rumours and maintain law and order.

“We have detained two persons for their alleged involvement in the clash. Raids are being conducted based on CCTV footage to identify and arrest others involved in the violence,” DIG (Western Range) Brijesh Rai told PTI. He added that nine additional platoons of armed police forces — each comprising 30 personnel — have been deployed in the town.

With the reinforcements, the total police deployment in Sundargarh has increased to 19 platoons. Security agencies have also been put on alert in nearby areas, including Rourkela and Rajgangpur, another police officer said.

No fresh incidents of violence have been reported since 5 pm on Thursday, Rai added.

“All schools, colleges and other educational institutions within the Sundargarh municipality limits remained closed on Friday as a safety measure,” District Collector Subhankar Mohapatra said. He added that all shops and commercial establishments, except medical stores, milk supply vehicles and emergency services, also remained shut.

The clash erupted on Thursday following an altercation between two groups over food items at Regent Market in Sundargarh town. During the violence, both groups allegedly used sharp weapons and hurled stones, officials said.

The district collector said gatherings, rallies and protests have been banned in the town until further orders. He added that the administration is in touch with senior members of both communities to convene a peace committee meeting.

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Appealing for calm, the administration urged residents not to be swayed by rumours. Sundargarh Superintendent of Police Amrit Pal Kaur said the situation was under control and security personnel have been deployed at all sensitive locations to reassure the public.