Youth killed by Indian gunfire at Sylhet border

A Bangladeshi youth named Saddam Hossain, 38, has been killed by gunfire from Indian Khasiyas in the border area of Companyganj upazila, Sylhet. He was the son of Bir Muktijoddha Kutu Mia of Lama Uttama village in the upazila.

Family members remain in extreme anxiety as his body has not been returned even after five days.

According to family and local sources, Saddam and several others crossed the border on Wednesday, April 1, to collect betel nuts. When they entered the Rajan Tila area, about 600 yards inside Indian territory near border pillar 1247, the Khasia betel nut garden owners opened fire. Saddam died at the scene, and his companion Farhad Mia was injured. The injured Farhad was later brought back to Bangladesh by others.

The deceased's elder brother Nazim Uddin said his brother and four others had gone to India that day. Saddam died at the scene in the firing. His body has not been recovered since.

Locals said the body was taken by the Indian side after the incident, but it has not been handed over after five days.

Companyganj Police Station Officer-in-Charge Shafiqul Islam said the incident occurred after crossing the border. Under protocol, the body must be returned through flag meetings between BGB and BSF.

Uttama BGB camp commander Abul Kalam said communication and discussions with BSF are ongoing for the return of the body.