11 RAB members 'closed' in Jesmine's death

Eleven personnel of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) have been "closed" in connection with the death of Sultana Jesmine under RAB custody in Naogaon.

Eleven personnel of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) have been "closed" in connection with the death of Sultana Jesmine under RAB custody in Naogaon.

They have been withdrawn from the responsibilities at the field level, said Law Minister Anisul Huq on Thursday (March 30, 2023).

In this regard, RAB's Legal and Media Wing Director Commander Khondker Al Moin said 11 personnel who were involved in the drive on March 22 last in Naogaon have been closed and attached to the RAB-5 Battalion Headquarters for questioning.

The 11 personnel comprise of an army major, an ASP, other personnel and a driver.

The RAB spokesman further said a committee formed by the RAB Headquarters is now staying in Rajshahi to investigate the incident. The committee is questioning every RAB personnel involved in the drive.

On the basis of a complain of Enamul Huque, joint secretary at the Office of Rajshahi Divisional Commissioner, the RAB arrested Sultana Jesmine from Naogaon in March 22. After four hours into her arrest, she was taken to Naogaon Sadar Hospital in a critical condition. Later, she was referred to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital where she died on Friday morning.

Sultana Jesmine worked as office assistant at Chandipur Union Land Office under Naogaon Sadar Upazila. The RAB claimed that Sultana Jesmine was arrested on Wednesday morning for questioning for her alleged involvement in fraudulent practices. She fell sick following her arrest and died at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital later on. However, her relatives alleged that Sultana Jesmine died of inhuman and brutal torture in RAB custody.