Editorial
Death by police torture
Govt must investigate for its own credibility
THERE have been too many custodial deaths for us to take the latest one lightly. There have been too many such instances being brushed under the carpet for us to not to protest vehemently on this instance. We want to stress with the maximum emphasis possible that the government should immediately institute a high powered inquiry—not a department one—to investigate the latest death in police custody of 26 year old Shamim Reza who was tortured by police to extort Tk 5 lacs for sending him to court.
An MBA student and part time sand trader, Shahim was picked up on suspicion of being involved in the recent murder of four members of a family of local union parishad chairman. Taken in for questioning the police, it is alleged by family members, had asked for the above ransom in exchange for assurance that Shahim would no longer be tortured and sent to court. He was sent to court where he confessed after which he was sent first to a hospital in Narayanganj and later to DMCH where is died.
While police denies torturing him the inquest by a magistrate confirms torture mark on the victim, and hence we believe the family's allegations to be true.
We strongly protest the unchecked custodial deaths that have been occurring over the years and repeat our demand for the most comprehensive investigation on this instance and punishment of the delinquent police officials.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments