EU missions want full investigation into deaths in Bangladesh’s anti-drug crackdown

The European Union missions in Dhaka have called upon Bangladesh to investigate "fully" all deaths related to the anti-drug crackdown.

“We expect the authorities to ensure that all incidents involving the deaths of alleged criminal suspects are investigated fully and in accordance with due processes," the EU missions in Dhaka said in a statement on Monday.

The EU Delegation issued the statement in agreement with the EU heads of mission in Bangladesh.

Drug abuse and illicit trafficking is a global problem, according to the statement. The high level of casualties and reports of the use of excessive force in the drive against narcotics, however, is reported to have resulted in over 120 deaths since May 4.

“Bangladesh has committed to uphold the rule of law and ensure that all law-enforcement actions are carried out in accordance with the law and in adherence to international standards and norms, including with appropriate safeguards over the use of force.”