Report: 287 abductees killed under Hasina

TT

Published 14.52

 

Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was forcibly removed during a popular uprising in 2024. Photo: Bangladesh Prime Minister's Office Via AP/TT

At least 287 abductees were killed during the rule of ousted Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, a committee investigating disappearances during her time in power has estimated.

Some bodies were probably dumped in rivers or placed in mass graves, according to the committee formed after Hasina was ousted in August 2024.

1,569 abductions have been investigated by the group, 287 of the victims are believed to be dead.

“The committee has recommended that Bangladesh seek cooperation from forensic experts to identify the bodies and collect and preserve DNA profiles from family members,” said committee member Nur Khan Liton.

The final report was submitted to the government on Sunday. Many of those abducted were members of opposition parties.

According to the United Nations, up to 1,400 people were killed in crackdowns as Sheikh Hasina tried to hold on to power. In November, she was sentenced to death in absentia for crimes against humanity.

Hasina is believed to be in India