Youth tortured to death by BSF, family claims

A youth has been killed, allegedly due to torture by India’s Border Security Force (BSF), at the Zahurpur border in Chapainawabganj, according to his family.

The incident occurred early Sunday morning (January 4) across the border in India, near Zahurpur in Sadar Upazila. The body was later sent to Jungipur Sub-District Hospital morgue in India for a post-mortem examination.

The deceased, Robiul Islam, was the son of Nizam Uddin of Satrashia village, ward number 2 of Narayanpur Union in Sadar Upazila.

Speaking to reporters, the mother of the deceased, Sefali Begum, said, “Robiul left home yesterday afternoon and did not return at night. When I woke up in the morning, I heard that my son had been shot dead by the BSF. Later, another report came that he had been beaten to death. The BSF tortured him. I want justice for this incident.”

Lieutenant Colonel Kazi Mostafizur Rahman, commander of the 53 BGB Battalion, said, “On Saturday night, Robiul, along with 5–6 others, illegally crossed into India. Later, when the BSF chased them, everyone escaped except Robiul. He could not flee. At that time, the BSF arrested him and took him to their camp. Afterwards, he fell ill.”

He added, “According to the BSF, he died on the way to the hospital. The autopsy will be conducted tomorrow. Once the report is available, more details can be provided.”