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Murder

Extrajudicial Killings in Bangladesh: A Longstanding Practice?

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Eminent citizens and human rights activists have brought to light the phenomenon of extrajudicial killings in Bangladesh, labeling the murder of former army officer Sinha Mohammad Rashed Khan as part of a long-standing practice. These concerns were raised at a virtual press conference organized by the Human Rights Forum Bangladesh (HRFB), a coalition of 20 human rights and development organizations. The speakers emphasized the lack of effective action taken by the government to stop such killings, despite numerous allegations and witnesses' testimonies.

Key Takeaways:

  • Between 2007 and 2020, 604 persons disappeared without a trace, reportedly abducted by state agencies and victims of extrajudicial killings.
  • The murder of Sinha Mohammad Rashed Khan is not an isolated incident, but rather part of a long-term practice of extrajudicial killings, according to human rights activists.
  • Law enforcement agencies have used the term "gunfight" to justify extrajudicial killings, which were allegedly used for crime control, drug eradication, and even for political-economic reasons.
  • Ain O Salish Kendra (ASK) reported that at least 210 persons were killed in "gunfights" from January to August 25, with family members and witnesses alleging that the victims did not die in actual gunfights but were victims of extrajudicial killings.
  • From 2018 to August 25 this year, 588 persons died in anti-drug drives across the country, with 287 killed in Cox's Bazar alone, according to media reports.
  • The police officer allegedly involved in the Sinha murder, Teknaf ex-OC Pradeep Kumar Das, received the "Police Medal" in 2019, highlighting the lack of accountability within the police force.
  • From January till August 25, 74 cases were filed under the Digital Security Act, with 146 persons accused, including 77 journalists.
  • The written statement also discussed the Jessore juvenile deaths inside the juvenile development centre, with speakers questioning the security measures and the misuse of the Digital Security Act.

Statistics:

  • Between 2007 and 2020, 604 persons disappeared, according to claims of victims' family and relatives.
  • At least 210 persons were killed in "gunfights" from January to August 25, according to ASK.
  • 588 persons died in anti-drug drives across the country from 2018 to August 25 this year.
  • 287 persons were killed in Cox's Bazar alone, according to media reports.
  • 110 persons were killed in "gunfights" after the joining of the removed OC, Teknaf ex-OC Pradeep Kumar Das.
  • 74 cases were filed under the Digital Security Act from January till August 25, with 146 persons accused, including 77 journalists.

Sources:

  • Human Rights Forum Bangladesh (HRFB)
  • Ain O Salish Kendra (ASK)
  • Association of Land Reform and Development
  • Nijera Kori
  • Manusher Jonno Foundation
  • Nagorik Uddyog
  • Bangladesh Adivasi Forum
  • Bondhu Social Welfare Society
  • Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST)
  • Steps Towards Development

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