The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has confirmed the identities of five female students killed in the tragic plane crash and fire at Milestone School and College in Uttara on July 21. The confirmation came through DNA testing conducted at the CID`s forensic lab.
On July 22, CID officials collected 11 biological samples from unidentified bodies and body parts stored at Dhaka`s Combined Military Hospital (CMH).
After forensic analysis, five distinct female DNA profiles were established. These profiles were then matched with DNA samples from 11 relatives of five families connected to the incident. By July 23, the identities of the five victims were officially verified.
The confirmed victims are:
- Okia Ferdous Nidhi – Identified as the daughter of Md. Faruk Hossain and Salma Akter.
- Lamia Akter Sonia – Identified as the daughter of Md. Babul and Majeda.
- Afsana Akter Priya – Identified as the daughter of Md. Abbas Uddin and Mst. Minu Akter.
- Raisa Moni – Identified as the daughter of Md. Shahabul Sheikh and Mrs. Mim.
- Mariam Umme Afia – Identified as the daughter of Abdul Kader and Umme Tamima Akter.
All five victims were students of Milestone School and College.
According to the CID, the condition of the remains at the crash site was extremely charred and fragmented, making visual identification impossible.
DNA technology became the only reliable method for positive identification. Officials noted that despite the complexity and emotional toll of the process, the testing was carried out with the highest level of accuracy and care.
The tragic accident and resulting fire shocked the nation, and this identification now brings some level of closure to the grieving families.
