Mob lynching deaths rise sharply in August: MSF Report

The Human Rights Culture Foundation (MSF) has reported a worrying increase in mob lynching deaths in August compared to July. According to the August report which was sent to the media on Sunday, 23 people were killed and 43 injured in 38 incidents of mob violence across the country. In July, 16 people died in 51 such cases.

The report states that most victims were accused of theft, robbery, or extortion. Some killings were linked to personal conflicts, drug-related allegations, or snatching charges. MSF Executive Director Saidur Rahman said the actual number of cases is likely higher, as fear prevents many from reporting. He warned that the rise in mob violence signals a breakdown in law and order.

August also saw a sharp rise in attacks on journalists. MSF recorded 33 incidents where 96 journalists faced physical assault, legal harassment, threats, or even killings while performing their duties. This marks a significant increase from 30 cases in July.

One of the most tragic incidents occurred on August 7, when journalist Md. Asaduzzaman Tuhin of the Doinik Protidin was fatally stabbed in Gazipur. Rahman criticized the lack of protection for journalists, saying many cannot seek police help or local justice.

Political violence also remained high in August, with 49 incidents resulting in 549 injuries and two deaths, both BNP activists. The report documented clashes within BNP, between BNP and Awami League, BNP and Jamaat, Awami League and Jamaat, and other political groups. Some incidents involved attacks on party offices, homes, shops, and grenade explosions.

Ten prisoner deaths were reported in August, including three convicts and seven detainees, mirroring July’s figures. Minority communities also faced violence, including attacks, vandalism, looting, rape, land grabbing, and verbal abuse. Three youths were arrested for making derogatory remarks against minorities.

MSF reported 349 incidents of violence against women and children in August, including 47 rapes, 19 gang rapes, four cases of rape followed by murder, 24 attempted rapes, 21 sexual harassment cases, and 94 physical abuse cases. Victims included 11 children and 17 adolescent girls, with six adolescent girls and nine women suffering gang rape.