Investigation ongoing for 330 disappeared individuals: Moinul Islam

The Commission on Enforced Disappearances is actively investigating the status of 330 individuals who were victims of enforced disappearances and have not yet returned, according to its head, Moinul Islam Chowdhury. 

During a briefing in Dhaka‍‍`s Gulshan area on Tuesday afternoon, Islam provided an update on the commission‍‍`s ongoing work, emphasizing that uncovering the fate of these individuals is a top priority.

Moinul Islam stated that the commission has so far received 1,752 complaints related to enforced disappearances. 

Of these, approximately 1,000 complaints, along with the necessary documents, have undergone initial verification. In a bid to move the investigation forward, the commission has recorded statements from 280 complainants. 

Additionally, testimony from around 45 officials from different ranks within law enforcement and intelligence agencies has been gathered to shed light on the cases.

He further highlighted that investigations into the current condition of the 330 missing individuals are still ongoing. 

"We are working diligently to uncover the truth behind these disappearances," Islam said.

As part of the inquiry, the commission reached out to superintendents of police from Bangladesh‍‍`s border districts and the sector commanders of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). 

They sought information on individuals who had been pushed back into Bangladesh from India after August 5, 2024. In response, Bangladesh Police provided details on 140 individuals. 

However, after conducting a preliminary inquiry into this data, no individuals from the list of enforced disappearance victims were found.

Addressing the issue of responsibility, Moinul Islam pointed out that criminal accountability for enforced disappearances lies with the specific individuals involved, rather than implicating the entire law enforcement or security forces. 

"If the individuals responsible for these crimes are brought to justice, it will help remove the stain on the reputation of the concerned forces and improve their image," Islam stated.

The commission‍‍`s work continues as it seeks answers for the families of the missing and strives to bring those responsible to justice, all while shedding light on one of the most critical human rights issues facing Bangladesh.

With the investigations progressing, there is hope that the truth will soon emerge, offering closure to families and justice for the victims.